3. Smart Indicators 3.3 Smart Governance e‐Democracy
e‐Democracy Citizen participation
The so‐called electronic democracy involves the use of ICT (computers, Internet and telecommunications) to improve politics and citizen participation in democratic communication and decision‐making processes.
Of the 26 cities (5 in Africa, 8 in Latin America, 1 in Asia and 9 in Europe) that answered the question, 62% have developed some type of on‐line platform to promote citizen participation.
One of the key factors in the current municipal administration is the incorporation of participatory processes aimed at establishing a dialogue with the public. Public participation helps to:
Regarding the analysis of the information, there is a great contrast between Asia and Europe with regard to Africa and Latin America.
Increase the effectiveness of measures through the inclusion of citizens and social groups. Strengthen the involvement of citizens (commitment for the common good).
In the case of Africa and Latin America, only 20% and 38% of cities, respectively, have developed some form of on‐line engagement platform, while in the case of Europe and Asia, the percentage of cities that have developed a platform rises to 92% and 100%, respectively.
Strengthen the democratic system (take into account as many views as possible when deciding). Strengthen general interests against individual interests.
% of cities that have some type of citizen participation platform by region
Obtain the support of citizens. 100% 100%
90%
Does your City have an on‐line platform for citizen participation?
92%
80%
No 10 cities 38%
70% 60% 50% 40% 38%
30%
Yes 16 cities 62%
20%
20%
10% 0% Africa
Latin America
Asia
Europe
99