Co-operation Between Administration and Citizens by the Example of the Participatory Budgeting

Abstract

The article presents the process of participatory budgeting, which is more and more popular form of co-operation between administration and citizens. A short historical outline and functions of this institution are shown, and a real impact of society on its planning and implementation. A role of particular organs of public administration in the venture is also analyzed. The study describes if a potential of participatory budgeting is achieved considering society’s stimulation, awareness, and commitment in the local issues. The authors pondered over political results of putting the procedure into practice and over elements that influence development of the territory that benefit from participatory budgeting. However, some people take a stand on the issue that it is a tool that authority uses to eliminate their tasks and to shift the responsibility onto the citizens. The research aims at investigating how participatory budgeting functions in Białystok, adducing shortly the main guidelines and projects. Results of public opinion measured among students living in this city were also shown.