The Catalan Government has approved a draft Citizen Participation Law, which will allow minors and individuals without voting rights to influence public policy and potentially receive financial compensation for their involvement. The Generalitat’s Executive Council gave its approval this Tuesday, marking a significant step towards broader democratic engagement across Catalonia.

Your browser does not support the video tag.

The new legislation aims to “strengthen democracy” by making participatory processes more accessible to citizens, according to the government. Sílvia Paneque, spokesperson for the Catalan Executive, stated during a press conference that this marks “the first time” citizen participation in politics has been addressed “integrally”. She explained the law aligns with standards set by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and will “reinforce democratic participation.”

The draft law outlines measures to foster universal participation, including digital platforms, provision of care services, and improved accessibility. It also opens the door to “economically compensating participation in some specific cases,” further encouraging broader engagement from all segments of society.

Enhancing Transparency and Accountability

The proposed law will now proceed to the Catalan Parliament for final drafting and a vote. In terms of transparency, the project obliges public administrations to respond to citizen contributions. They must also explain how they have considered these inputs. This ensures greater accountability in governance.

Once the law passes parliamentary scrutiny and comes into force, the Síndic de Greuges, Catalonia’s ombudsman, will evaluate its application every two years. This regular assessment mechanism ensures continuous oversight and effectiveness. The law also seeks to regulate citizens’ right to access public institutions, making government more open.

Tailored Approaches for Rural Areas

The legislation also considers Catalonia’s diverse territorial reality, establishing a specific regime for rural municipalities and smaller towns. This adaptation acknowledges the unique needs and challenges faced by these communities in participating in public policy. It ensures the law’s applicability across the region.

The Generalitat has actively promoted citizen engagement, initiating 33 participatory processes between 2023 and 2024. They have started 22 processes in 2025, with plans for another 25 throughout 2026. Furthermore, 46% of Catalonia’s municipal councils conducted 838 participatory processes during 2023 and 2024, demonstrating existing local commitment.

Extensive Public Consultation

The development of this significant document involved a multi-phase participatory process. More than 80 individuals and 43 entities contributed, submitting 91 initial proposals. A second phase, focusing on the articles of the law, received 82 additional contributions. A final public hearing and information phase gathered over 140 further suggestions. This extensive consultation underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive law-making.

The approval of this draft law signifies a move towards a more inclusive and responsive governance model in Catalonia. Its implementation could significantly alter how residents, including younger generations and non-voters, interact with and shape regional public policy. This new framework aims to deepen democratic practices across the region.

Come and join our Barcelona English Speakers community on WhatsApp.

Originally published by 20 Minutos Barcelona. Read original article.