Online Participation Tools and Their Benefits for Participatory Democracy: Reflections and Complementary Perspectives
Chapter
Author(s) / editor(s):
Ralf Lindner
Year: 2026
Language(s): English
Abstract:
The chapter argues that expectations about e‑participation improving democracy are often shaped by technological determinism and normative optimism. It proposes analysing e‑participation tools by their concrete function in policy processes (monitoring, agenda‑setting, decision‑making) and criticises overemphasis on technical features at the expense of socio‑political constraints. Empirical evidence shows limited gains in inclusivity and participation, due to enduring digital divides, resource inequalities and weak links to formal decision‑making. The chapter calls for prioritising inclusivity and integrating digital tools more tightly with institutional procedures to realise e‑participation’s democratic potential.
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-032-02302-5_9
Post created by: Virginia Signorini