In recent years, both at the state and community levels in RA, active steps are being taken towards the introduction and establishment of the participatory budgeting system.

Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure has revolutionized participatory budgeting in communities. Until 2023, citizen involvement in budget decisions was limited to consultative bodies and public hearings. However, a new era has dawned with the introduction of Local-level Participatory Budgeting in Communities.

Launched in 2023, this innovative model empowers community residents and civil society representatives to actively shape budget priorities.  Through  direct  participation, they  can

propose community programs and democratically select funded initiatives via voting. This transformative approach is made possible through collaborative efforts with the support of GIZ and SDC.

Building on this, the Republic of Armenia (RA) government is taking participatory budgeting to the next level in 2024. Under a pioneering pilot program, community development projects nominated and chosen by the local population will receive co-financing within the framework of state subsidies to communities.

These initiatives mark a significant departure from traditional budgetary processes, offering citizens to have an influence over the allocation of public resources. The expanded tools for participation aim to foster a more inclusive and transparent decision-making process.

To shed light on these exciting developments, a press conference has been organized. The event, targeted at civil society representatives and the general public, aims to raise awareness about the enhanced participatory opportunities. The goal is to activate community engagement, encourage the submission of innovative proposals, and foster the development of civil initiatives for community growth and prosperity.

Karine Harutyunyan, Executive Director, Economic Development and Research Center (EDRC)

Lilit Hakobyan, Expert, Economic Development and Research Center (EDRC)