Speaking at the opening of the 23rd Conference of the International Observatory on Participatory Democracy organised in Valongo on 17-19 October on “How can participatory democracy help us counter populist threats and build democratic resilience”, Konstantinos Koukas, Congress spokesperson on the European Local Democracy Week and local councillor of Mykonos (Greece) highlighted that participatory democracy is a powerful antidote to populism: “When people are actively involved in shaping public policies, they are less likely to feel disconnected or disenfranchised, and more likely to trust democratic institutions”.
Congress vice-president Koukas stressed that institutionalising mechanisms of participation not only empowers citizens but also builds a more resilient, pluralistic democracy, better able to withstand the threats of disinformation, distrust, and populist trends. “Where populism thrives on division, exclusion, and a growing distrust in democratic institutions, participatory democracy, by contrast, offers a path toward inclusive governance”, he underlined.
He further elaborated on practical approaches to engage citizens in decision-making, such as participatory budgeting, citizens' assemblies, digital e-democracy platforms, collaborative workshops, and youth councils. These initiatives foster greater civic engagement and strengthen democratic processes at the local level.
Presenting the European Local Democracy Week organised by the Congress which aims to promote events organised by cities and regions with and for their citizens, Koukas praised the city of Valongo which has been for many years an active and innovative partner of the European Week of Local Democracy, organising every year, a wide range of such activities.
He encouraged the participants of the Valongo Conference to take the lessons learned about others’ experiences and best practices, successes and challenges back to their communities and continue the essential work of building democratic resilience through active and innovative action to promote citizen participation.
