Bringing participatory tools to a different level: A case study of local participatory practices in Kyrgyzstan

Engaging citizens in decision-making has become an important function of governments around the world. Local administrators facing budget constraints are interested in citizen feedback on a growing number of issues related to government performance. Based primarily on American evidence, the public administration literature notes that citizen-engagement tools have advantages and disadvantages. Some theorists suggest that combining participatory tools can maximize their effects. This article extends the analysis by a consideration of how local governments in Kyrgyzstan, a transitional democracy, implemented participatory tools. It finds that merging such tools as citizen report cards and budget hearings led to improved participation outcomes, including changes in government service delivery. The study has important implications for developing effective participatory techniques.