2025 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

The practice of participatory governance in the In Slaiman region involved actively engaging citizens, particularly young people, women and farmers, in local decision-making processes to promote sustainable solutions to socio-economic challenges. It aimed to improve living conditions, strengthen social cohesion and promote sustainable agricultural practices, while ensuring the inclusion of all social groups in development processes.

The practice began with participatory workshops, community meetings and city consultations, enabling residents to share their concerns and propose solutions tailored to their needs.

The communication mechanisms used by WhatsApp groups to ensure constant monitoring and collect feedback in real time. This approach has made it possible to better understand the population's needs, particularly those of marginalized groups, and to adapt public policies accordingly.

In terms of impact, the practice enables access to basic services, not in the health, education and agriculture sectors, and helps strengthen citizen participation in local decision-making. More than 1,000 people have been involved in participatory processes, and the impact has been felt through improved collaboration between local authorities and communities.

This practice has also influenced the formulation of public policies, particularly those related to land-use planning and support for sustainable agricultural initiatives. Thanks to this approach, permanent mechanisms for citizen consultation have been put in place, contributing to the institutionalization of participatory democracy in the region. However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of sustainable financing and maintaining the commitment of rural populations.

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