This publication from the EU-funded Nets4Dem project explores how cities are responding to declining trust, participation and democratic engagement through practical democratic innovation.
Developed by project partner Eurocities, the publication – Democratic innovation in cities: Resources for local action – shows how democratic renewal is taking place at local level, where people experience public decision-making most directly. Across Europe, polarisation is hardening public debate, civic space is shrinking, disinformation is weakening trust, and elected representatives increasingly face intimidation online and offline.
Cities can create meaningful opportunities for residents to shape decisions affecting their everyday lives, from climate action and housing to education, public space and social inclusion. Alongside representative democracy, they are increasingly using citizens’ assemblies, participatory budgeting, digital platforms and other collaborative approaches to strengthen trust and involve people beyond election cycles.
Drawing on Nets4Dem’s Democracy Labs in Grenoble, Barcelona and Bilbao, held between 2024 and 2026, the publication examines emerging trends in local democratic innovation and presents six inspiring city practices from across Europe. These examples show how cities are testing new approaches, reaching underrepresented groups and turning participation into visible results.
The publication also offers practical recommendations for local policymakers and practitioners. While each approach must be adapted to its local context, the same principles remain essential: active listening, shared decision-making power, tangible impact, accountability and transparency.
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The Nets4Dem project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or EU Horizon. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.