2025 Award "Best Practice in Citizen Participation"

The "Mashhad Municipality FASH Platform" is an initiative aimed at creating a transparent and efficient mechanism for citizen information and participation in urban management. Designed to enhance transparency, facilitate access to urban information, and boost public participation in decision-making, the platform has significantly influenced public policies and improved urban services in Iran. 

1. Objectives: The primary goal was to enhance transparency in municipal operations, enabling citizens to access information about projects, budgets, and contracts easily. Secondary objectives included increasing efficiency, reducing corruption through citizen monitoring, and encouraging greater public involvement. 

2. Methodology: Launched in 2020, the platform was developed after assessing urban information needs and establishing the necessary technical infrastructure. Data related to projects and contracts became publicly accessible, allowing citizens and NGOs to monitor municipality performance effectively. 

3. Communication Strategies: Digital tools and awareness campaigns were utilized to inform the public and encourage participation. The platform provided a space for citizens to share opinions and suggestions and included feedback mechanisms through surveys. 

4. Social and Economic Impacts: The initiative increased public trust, empowered citizen participation, and improved urban services. Transparent processes reduced corruption potential and encouraged active citizen engagement. 

5. Impact on Policies: The platform prompted the development of transparency policies across various sectors and transformed government-citizen relations, allowing more public involvement in monitoring and evaluating urban management. 

6. Challenges: Despite successes, challenges such as limited financial resources, resistance within the municipality, and access difficulties for some social groups hindered further expansion. 

7. Future Considerations: To sustain citizen participation, the municipality should continue refining the FASH platform and addressing the evolving needs of diverse communities. Ensuring equitable access and enhancing public awareness will be crucial for future success. The initiative exemplifies a model for transparency and citizen engagement, with a commitment to providing comprehensive municipal information through its online portal.

• www.fash.mashhad.ir (External link)