How can citizens decide over their own neighbourhood? Join us on May 20th for the second Speak Up webinar, where we’ll dive into the power of participatory budgeting through the case of ‘Sterk Hoogkerk’ in Groningen, The Netherlands. This engaging session features both civil servants and citizens from Hoogkerk, who will share their experiences and insights, offering inspiration for others looking to take similar action in their communities.
Participatory budgeting is a democratic process that empowers community members to directly decide how a portion of a public budget is spent. It allows citizens to propose, discuss, and vote on initiatives that will benefit their community, ensuring that budgeting decisions align with the needs and priorities of those most impacted.
Hoogkerk, a village in the municipality of Groningen, is known for its unique character. In 2021, a group of passionate citizens and municipal council members traveled to Antwerp to explore the potential for participatory budgeting in their own neighbourhood—and they succeeded. What sets this project apart is that citizens will have the opportunity to shape their community’s budget over a ten-year period, making it even more impactful.
Key Themes:
- The history and context of participatory budgeting in Hoogkerk
- Insights and progress from local participants on their initiatives
- Challenges faced in reshaping the relation between citizens and government
Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn and be inspired!