In the quest to enhance and expand digital participation, how can we ensure that even the least engaged communities are included in the conversation? Our goal is to co-create digital democratic spaces that resonate with the diverse fabric of our societies. How can we develop culture-sensitive and inclusive approaches to online deliberation models that reflect the needs and aspirations of all citizens?

At the heart of our work is an exploration of how e-democracy platforms interact with the political culture of cities. Have you ever considered how the design of these platforms can shape urban development models? We aim to delve into this relationship, conducting comparative studies to uncover patterns of inclusion and exclusion that arise from different implementation strategies. What makes a platform thrive in one city while struggling in another? How can we design features that foster connections among citizens and groups while enhancing the quality of direct democracy?

Our research also seeks to answer an important question: How can we leverage cultural artefacts and collective memories from disempowered groups to enrich the dialogues we have in our communities? By collaborating with local communities, we want to identify cultural strategies that address the gaps and risks of exclusion we’ve discovered. What stories and historical heritages can we weave into our discussions to create a more inclusive dialogue? How can we ensure that the strategies we develop are co-designed with those directly involved, allowing them to fit seamlessly into existing practices?

Engaging citizens is crucial in this journey. What does it mean to embark on a new citizen journey through online deliberation? We’re exploring how gamification can strengthen participation and promote intersectional equality. By working with stakeholders, we aim to address issues of social segregation and marginalization. What incentives can we create to encourage citizens to get involved? How can participants gather insights from their peers to enhance participatory evaluations? Together, we will deploy digital tools that not only enhance deliberation but also connect community networks, fostering a sense of belonging and engagement.