To apply, you must complete the Online Application Form by 15 March 2026.
The International Observatory of Participatory Democracy (OIDP) and United Cities and Local Governments (UCLG) invite local and regional governments worldwide to participate in the call for the 20th edition of the OIDP Award “ Best Practice in Citizen Participation,” an international recognition that rewards innovative and transformative projects to enhance participation in local democracy.
Who can apply?
This award is open to all local and regional governments whose participatory and deliberative democracy practices have been active during 2025.
Also, any non-profit organization or individual can apply, provided they have implemented a practice in collaboration with local and regional governments and have their authorization.
This year, we continue with the “Special Mention for Sustainability,” which will be awarded to practices that, although no longer active in 2025, have been operational for over five years, preserving their name and core characteristics without significant changes.
For more information, please refer to the Terms of the 2026 Award.
How to apply
Applications can be submitted by all local, subnational, and regional governments, as well as organizations and individuals who are members of OIDP. If you are not yet a member of OIDP, you must complete the membership form by 5 March 2026.
To submit your application, you must complete the Online Application Form available on our website by 15 March 2026. The form can be completed in Spanish, English, French, or Portuguese.
We strongly encourage you to follow the instructions in the Application Guide when submitting your application: the clearer the information you provide, the easier it will be for the jury to understand your practice and conduct a thorough evaluation.
Key dates
Participate!
The OIDP Award is an opportunity to showcase your work internationally, reinforcing and renewing democracy from local communities.
Awarding
The OIDP Award and Special Mentions will be presented at the Award Ceremony during the 25th OIDP Conference in Krakow, which will take place from 21-23 September 2026. The winning government will receive a trophy, a diploma, and special dissemination of its practice. Travel and accommodation expenses for one representative of the winning government will be covered for attendance at this event.
For more information
To review the detailed requirements and submit an application, please visit the OIDP Award website. If you have any questions, please contact us at oidp@uclg.org
We look forward to receiving your innovative projects and sharing the transformative power of participatory democracy!
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