3 process not only encouraged direct involvement in local governance but also generated broader civic engagement beyond the budgeting domain, particularly in low-risk, community-oriented activities. Need for Improvement from Central and Local Government The intervention also influenced citizens’ perceptions of the need for governmental improvement. Residents in treatment communities reported a higher demand for improvement from the central government, averaging 1.80 on a 1–4 scale, compared to 1.61 in control communities. This reflects an increased expectation for accountability from higher levels of government. However, there was no significant change in the demand for improvement from local governments, suggesting that while local participatory practices may enhance accountability expectations at the central level, they do not necessarily translate into similar pressures on local authorities. General Satisfaction and Voice The increased demands for improvement did not correspond to decreased satisfaction. Residents in treatment communities reported significantly higher satisfaction with government policies, averaging 4.91 compared to 4.79 in control communities. They also expressed greater pride in their community, more positive views of local economic conditions, and a stronger belief that the government is responsive to their voices. This suggests that participatory budgeting can enhance citizens’ perceptions of their role in governance, fostering a sense of agency and a stronger connection to public decision-making processes. Recommendations Expand Participatory Budgeting Initiatives Scaling up participatory budgeting programs can be an effective strategy to strengthen civic engagement and enhance government accountability, particularly in centralized regimes contexts. By giving citizens a direct voice in how local resources are allocated, these initiatives can help narrow the gap between the government and the public, fostering a stronger sense of ownership, responsibility, and trust within communities. Tailor Implementation to Local Contexts Participatory budgeting should be designed with a nuanced understanding of the local political, social, and cultural environment. This includes engaging community leaders, addressing locally relevant issues, and adapting the process to reflect the unique characteristics of each community. Such customization increases the likelihood of genuine citizen participation and maximizes the program’s overall impact. Promote Broader Civic Engagement Governments should encourage a diverse range of civic activities beyond participatory budgeting, such as volunteerism, community organizing, and open discussions on local policy issues. Providing multiple pathways for participation helps sustain citizen involvement over time, contributing to a more active, informed, and empowered public that is better equipped to advocate for its needs and interests. A large-scale field experiment on participatory decision-making in China Public Policy BULLETIN
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDk5Njg=