Bridging Digital Politics and Local Action: The Role of Civic Tech in Political Participation

Description:
This research explored the role of Decidim Barcelona as a tool for local participation. Framing Decidim as a digital civic space with affordances designed to support more substantive political participation the research measured levels of platform usage and topic salience to determine the effect on a proposal's acceptance and participation by the municipality. Using a mix of advanced regression analysis, topic modelling, and predictive models, the results highlight how Barcelonan residents can best use the platform to support a proposal. Ultimately, Decidim holds the potential to go beyond tokenizing participation and support an active local polity. Implications for the future of civic tech platforms is discussed. (Master's Thesis)

Structure and Format:
Presentation with accompanying graphics

Target Audience:
Researchers, civil society, and practitioners

Language of the Session:
English