Popular Participation is the involvement of citizens in the politics, economics and socio-cultural aspects their of a country. This principle allows for the public to be actively involved in the governance of their country. Individuals have unrestricted and equal opportunities to express their standpoints to the government.
Popular Participation has significant impact of the rate of education and development in the country. A government that listens to the voices of its citizens is better prepared to advance their society according to its needs. It also promotes a culture where people have a sense of belonging and ownership in their country and increases patriotism. People feel important to and responsible for their land and society when their voice is represented.
There are 3 types of Popular Participation:
1. Indirect Popular Participcation: involves writing letters, emails, making phone calls and other communication methods that are not face to face. For example, calling the office of your local Congressman to express your thoughts on gun control.
2. Direct Popular Participation: Citizens represent themselves face to face to political authorities. For example, the Parkland Shooting Survivors holding town hall meetings with State Representatives to voice their opinions on gun control.
3. Traditional Mode: This uses local or community leaders to meet face to face with higher political authorities to voice the opinions of the people. For example, school superintendents meeting with their State Governors to represent their districts popular opinions on gun control.
