The Development of Participatory Budgeting Processes in Cluj-Napoca

Abstract

Participatory budgeting is an instrument used everywhere in the world today to develop communities and democracy in order to increase the accountability and capacity of the public administration. Participatory budgeting processes have important outcomes in terms of increasing democratic representation of previously excluded categories, increasing the level of trust between authorities and citizens, expanding public service delivery and increasing the quality of public services, but positive results are not always guaranteed. Participatory budgeting processes have their own risks and limitations. A strong civil society is a favorable premise and a clear commitment of the governors to delegate their authority is a must.

Between 2013 and 2018, several participatory processes that could be included in the field of participatory budgeting have been carried out in Cluj-Napoca and have been used as a model for processes in other cities in Romania and the European Union. Through these processes, a participatory culture was promoted both at the local community level and at the local public administration level, their development being an important element in building a local system of participatory governance and an inclusive public sphere.