Invited but not included

This study examines citizen participation in local governance within Gauteng Province, South Africa, highlighting invited spaces or government-created forums. Analysing data from the Gauteng City Region Observatory’s Quality of Life VII survey (n = 13,795), findings reveal that 60% of residents have never participated in these forums, with just 4% involved in all four. This suggests systematic exclusion, influenced by several factors. Key predictors of low participation include length of residence, persistent racial disparities, and an inverse relationship where lower-income residents participate more. Barriers such as limited time, poverty, transport costs, and distrust in institutions further exacerbate low participation levels. Utilising Miraftab's framework, the study reinforces that low participation in government-created forums can coexist with other participatory processes. To nurture inclusive local governance, efforts must address structural barriers, build trust, and recognise alternative participatory spaces as vital democratic expressions.

Abstract based directly on original source.