Inhaltszusammenfassung

Digitalization is transforming democracy by enabling new forms of political participation through e-participation and e-democracy. While these concepts use ICT to engage citizens in democratic decision-making, trust remains a key challenge. In this study, we investigate citizens’ awareness, knowledge, and use of e-participation in the metropolitan area of Koblenz in Germany. Along a literature review, we first identified key influencing factors. Subsequently, a survey was conducted with 217 r...Digitalization is transforming democracy by enabling new forms of political participation through e-participation and e-democracy. While these concepts use ICT to engage citizens in democratic decision-making, trust remains a key challenge. In this study, we investigate citizens’ awareness, knowledge, and use of e-participation in the metropolitan area of Koblenz in Germany. Along a literature review, we first identified key influencing factors. Subsequently, a survey was conducted with 217 respondents from one city and five administrative districts. The results from the survey indicate low awareness, with citizens recognizing basic forms like e-information, while largely being unfamiliar with interactive methods such as e-consultation and e-collaboration. Many citizens are unaware of, or do not engage with local e-participation opportunities, limiting their involvement to passive information access. Trust in e-participation is shaped by factors such as data protection, IT security, transparency, and perceived political impact. The findings highlight the need for improved communication strategies and targeted initiatives to enhance awareness and promote active citizen engagement.» weiterlesen» einklappen

Autoren