Building on the successful implementation of the 2nd and 3rd Schools of Participatory Democracy in Istanbul and Ankara in 2023/24, efforts in Türkiye continue to promote citizen engagement and youth participation by applying participatory tools such as the UChange game methodology, developed by Council of Europe experts.
The UChange game enhances young people’s capacity to engage in decision-making processes and contribute to an inclusive and sustainable future.
In this context, third-year students at İstanbul Kent University recently took part in an interactive workshop led by Council of Europe expert Melis Türker, focusing on participatory democracy tools. The highlight of the event was a simulation of the UChange game, which is designed to teach democratic principles, participatory policymaking, and practical methods for engaging effectively in decision-making processes
During the session, students were introduced to the work of the Council of Europe, with a particular emphasis on its initiatives in participatory and deliberative democracy. Key standards, such as the CM Recommendation (2018)4 on citizen participation in local public life and the CM Recommendation (2023)6 on deliberative democracy, were presented alongside practical tools for fostering citizen participation and inclusive governance. Through the simulation, students delved into the dynamics of public governance and policymaking by addressing real-life challenges in their community in Kağıthane.
During the simulation exercise, students tackled significant local issues such as remediating the Sadabat Stream to enhance environmental sustainability and restore ecological balance, creating a public youth space to promote inclusivity and cultural engagement, and redesigning pedestrian and vehicle roads to improve accessibility and ensure equitable use of public spaces. The students worked collaboratively to analyse these problems, identify the relevant public actors and their responsibilities, and review pertinent policy documents.
Ultimately, they formulated actionable policy recommendations using the participatory tools introduced during the workshop.
This hands-on approach provided students with valuable insights into the importance of civic engagement and the practicalities of creating community-driven solutions. İstanbul Kent University has reaffirmed its commitment to preparing future leaders by equipping them with the knowledge and skills essential for participatory and deliberative democracy, based on Council of Europe Standards.
