The International Observatory on Participatory Democracy (OIDP) invites its members to express interest in joining its leadership . Applications should be submitted to the Technical Secretariat at oidp@uclg.org before 6 September 2026.
In the framework of the 2026 OIDP General Assembly, the International Observatory on Participatory Democracy (OIDP) is opening a renewed process to strengthen and diversify the leadership of our network.
Local and regional governments, associations of local authorities, young leaders, and experts committed to participatory democracy are invited to take a more active role in shaping the future of the OIDP and contributing to its global agenda.
The OIDP is a shared space built through collective leadership. This new stage aims to expand opportunities for members and partners to contribute their experience, knowledge, and commitment to strengthening democracy at the local level.
Local and regional governments, as well as associations of local authorities that are members of the OIDP, can join the Promoter Member community and contribute directly to the political direction and development of the network.
Promoter Members participate in the OIDP Steering Committee, support the implementation of the annual work plan, lead thematic initiatives, represent the network internationally, and contribute to the collective growth of participatory democracy worldwide.
Members from the same geographical area can propose the creation of a Regional Office to bring the work of the OIDP closer to territories, strengthen local connections, promote exchanges, and develop activities adapted to regional realities.
Regional Offices help expand the network’s territorial presence and ensure that local voices from different parts of the world contribute to the global movement for participatory democracy.
Experts in participatory and deliberative democracy, local governance, urbanism, human rights, and related fields can contribute their knowledge to guide and enrich the work of the OIDP.
The Advisory Committee provides strategic and methodological advice, supports the identification of good practices, and helps ensure the quality and diversity of the network’s activities, publications, and events.
Young leaders committed to participation, inclusion, and democratic innovation are invited to contribute to the OIDP Youth Council.
The Council creates a space for young people to bring their ideas, experiences, and perspectives into the network’s initiatives, while promoting more intergenerational and inclusive approaches to local democracy.
The OIDP is developing a new space to strengthen gender equality, inclusion, and diversity within participatory democracy.
Women leaders, elected representatives, experts, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and allies committed to inclusive governance will be invited to contribute to this initiative and help ensure that participation becomes more representative and equitable.
The future of participatory democracy depends on collaboration, diversity, and shared responsibility. By becoming part of the OIDP leadership, members and partners can help strengthen a global community committed to more inclusive, democratic, and participatory societies.
More information: https://www.oidp.net/docs/repo/doc1974.pdf
25th OIDP Conference: https://oidp2026.krakow.pl/en
News to host the 27th OIDP Conference in 2028: https://oidp.net/en/content.php?id=1993
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