Constructive Citizen Participation

Constructive Citizen Participation is a systematic process to identify and understand different public viewpoints. In turn the programme provides them with relevant information and then works with them to resolve their concerns and elicit their positive suggestions for a proposed project, policy or program. The consultation process is generic and can be used for sustainable development initiatives.

Some of the core tools to implement the consultation process are:

- social profile to obtain a systematic appreciation of the residents of a community or study area.

- responsive publication, using a question-and-answer format to reach the ignorant skeptics and provide readers with way to respond with a coupon or phone number.

- open house to provide means for conversation between residents and proponent's staff - more productive than the traditional. public meeting.

- planning workshop to engage the leaders of a dozen groups with diverse views to resolve issues about the proposal.

Specific tools include: Manual (Spanish or English), comprehensive resource book, instructional video (Spanish or English).