Guide to Online Participation/2. Principles
From ParticipatioNZ
Sound principles can stand the test of time. This section sets out the core principles for online participation.
Contents |
Snapshot
Voices
"Allow us to be valued participants in the formulation of policy, permit us to share our combined wisdom with you and most of all respect the voluntary commitment we continue to gift to our individual communities and allow us to sit at the table as equals." -- Community leader
Quote
To add value, however, e-participation schemes need to be shaped by certain principles. At a minimum, if they are to be seen as legitimate and worthwhile they must involve a commitment to being inclusive of hard to reach groups on the one hand and a clear commitment by authorities to respond to citizen communications received over the internet on the other. -- Local E-Democracy Needs a Boost, Institute of Public Policy Research, UK
Key messages
- Principles for online participation are the bridge between our current practice and our future aspirations.
- The tools for online participation will change over time. The principles guiding their application must be future-proof.
- To be of value, principles for online participation must be able to be applied in practice.
Principles for online participation
The following principles are not listed in any priority and should be regarded as mutually reinforcing. They serve to guide online participation initiatives. They should not be seen as detracting from, or supplementing, agencies' existing legal obligations regarding access to information and consultation.
Clarity
Be clear. Be open and transparent about the objectives, limits, resources and potential impacts of online participation.
Respect
Demonstrate respect. Show respect for the contributions, perspectives, values and prerogatives of people, stakeholders, elected representatives and public servants.
Confidence & commitment
Build confidence as a basis for commitment. Online participation is a new practice for decision makers, people and stakeholders. Give it time, prove its worth.
Creativity
Be creative. New tools mean new approaches. Success hinges on innovation.
Inclusion
Be inclusive. Go to where people are. Make every effort to be accessible and connect with all relevant communities, online and offline.
Accountability
Be accountable. Online participation is a multistakeholder process where everyone is accountable.
Achievement
Make a difference. Strive for, build on and celebrate achievements in using online participation as a means for people, government, communities and businesses to achieve their goals.
Full story
For the full story on the principles underpinning the Guide to Online Participation read more here.
