Strengthening Citizen Participation in Decision-Making Processes

Strengthening citizen participation in decision-making processes was the focus of trainings held in October within the PRAGG program, in several local communities – Doboj, Tuzla and Breza. The aim was to empower citizens to take a more active role in public processes, use available consultation mechanisms, and contribute to more transparent and accountable work of local authorities.

The trainings covered key areas such as the legal framework for citizen participation, mechanisms for public consultations, civic initiatives and public hearings, communication with institutions, as well as practical examples that can help citizens exercise their rights in their local communities. According to participants, a particular value of the program was the combination of theoretical and practical segments.

Trainings Can Motivate Citizens to Influence Change

Participants in Doboj emphasized that such trainings are still lacking in local communities and should be organized more frequently. They noted that the training provided clearer insight into ways citizens can influence decisions before they are made.

“The training helped me understand how things actually work and the ways we can influence decisions before they are made,” said one participant from Doboj, adding that such programs are especially important for those who want to improve life in their community but lack information and skills.
Several participants expressed regret that more citizens from Doboj did not attend, noting that such concrete workshops, grounded in “local issues,” could motivate even those who have not been engaged so far.

One participant cited an example from her neighborhood where residents often criticize decisions of municipal/city departments on social media but do not use formal participation mechanisms (public hearings, civic initiatives, meetings with council members).

Citizens in Tuzla and Breza Confirm Their Willingness to Be Part of Public Processes

In Tuzla, participants highlighted that the training provided concrete answers to challenges they face in local decision-making processes.

“Honestly, the training helped me get answers to some questions, and I really enjoyed discussing these topics with someone who has the expertise,” one participant said, while another added that after the training she will “feel more confident reaching out to institutions.”

In Breza, citizens emphasized the importance of practical information on the tools available to them.

“After this training, I learned which mechanisms we can use as citizens of a local community,” one participant noted.

The interest and willingness of citizens to engage in public processes confirm that such programs are an important step towards building communities where decisions are made more transparently and with broader public participation.

The trainings are part of a broader effort to raise awareness on the importance of civic engagement, strengthen a culture of dialogue, and encourage cooperation between citizens and local institutions. The program will continue in other municipalities.

What’s Next – Join Us

The program continues, and we invite all interested individuals to join the upcoming trainings:

Konjic - 08 November 2025
Prnjavor and Zavidovići - 15 November 2025