CSO Consultations in Ukraine

The effective organization of innovative forms of citizen participation such as participatory budgeting, citizens’ assemblies, e-petitions, online consultations, and mini-publics requires a comprehensive approach. This includes civic education, an appropriate legal framework, government support, strong communication, and the inclusion of diverse citizen groups.

Participants emphasized the need to educate citizens on how participatory mechanisms function, what rights they have, and how to influence decisions. Education should go beyond theory, using interactive methods like simulations, role-plays, and student self-government to help people 'try on' the role of an active citizen. These experiences sow seeds of trust and engagement that later grow into meaningful participation.

The existence of statutes and regulations governing participatory tools (e.g., participatory budgets or e-petitions) ensures protected and sustainable participation. From January 1, 2027, adopting local community statutes will be mandatory, offering a chance to embed participation as a norm.

No participatory mechanism can succeed without at least minimal cooperation with local authorities. It is crucial to find allies among local officials who can support initiatives and ensure implementation of decisions. It is important not to oppose the authorities, but to look for partners within the system.

Effective communication greatly shapes trust in participation as a means of influencing government. It is vital to inform the public about the outcomes of their involvement which public proposals were considered and implemented. This fosters trust in participation as a meaningful tool rather than a formality.

Participation must be voluntary, equal, and free from discrimination based on age, education, economic status, or experience. Special attention should be paid to engaging often-overlooked groups: elderly people, youth, people with disabilities, women, and newcomers to civic activity.

In addition to the above points participants in the discussions also mentioned external support for such forms. “It is worth involving reliable external organizations in the facilitation and moderation of processes, which contributes to the formation of trust in the process."

Participants highlighted several key barriers that hinder citizen involvement in political decision-making:

• Psychological Barriers: Many citizens believe their voice doesn’t matter (“small person syndrome”).

• Distrust of Government: Deeply rooted in society distrust.

• Fear and Personal Risk: In small communities, expressing one’s opinion is often associated with the risk of condemnation or conflict.

• Loss of Motivation: Citizens become discouraged when efforts do not bring results.

Education and Civic Awareness: Promoting knowledge through training, participatory schools, and practical formats like student self-government helps people understand their capacity for influence.... Sharing success stories motivates others to participate.

Communication and Accessibility: Information should be disseminated via multiple channels, social media, printed newsletters, phone calls, and in-person meetings. Participation procedures should be simplified and free of bureaucratic complexity.

Tying Participation to Everyday Life: Engagement should be linked to solving tangible local problems like transportation, lighting, urban planning, and services. Personal relevance increases willingness to participate.

Transparency and Results: Demonstrating impact is key: “The petition was supported; the issue was resolved.” It is worth involving citizens in monitoring the implementation of decisions, because real participation also includes control, reviewing responses, and tracking the actions of the authorities."

Martial law restricts elections, referendums, and criticism, creating barriers to participation but not halting it. Despite the war, democratic tools like petitions, public hearings, and initiatives continue to function in Ukraine. War has significantly damaged public infrastructure (schools, administrative buildings), particularly in frontline areas, which complicates the implementation of traditional participatory formats.

The Ukrainian Constitution prohibits referendums on issues such as taxes, the state budget, and amnesty. The Law of Ukraine “On a National Referendum” supplements this list which cannot be put to a referendum. Also overly polarizing or technically complex topics should not be delegated to citizens without proper preparation.

Public distrust of authorities is rooted in historical oppression and real examples of non-transparency can discourage civic engagement. A significant obstacle can be persecution, pressure, even murder. This problem can be especially relevant in a small settlement, where it is difficult to maintain anonymity. Insufficient protection of activists can deter citizens from active participation.

Due to the war, many Ukrainians are abroad. Online involvement of citizens who have left helps to maintain their connection with the community. it helps to overcome the limitations: Focus on local issues: Local topics are less politicized and easier to understand. Training of authorities and communities: Not only activists but also civil servants should be educated about the benefits of participation. Showing successful cases: Examples of change motivate communities and build trust. Protection of participants: It is necessary to create safe environment for those who are active. Maintaining contact with Ukrainians abroad, including through community-diaspora interaction projects where their experience in advocating for Ukraine's interests was shared.