To enhance citizen participation in the management and decision-making processes of public finances, promoting inclusiveness and targeting public expenditures, the 2024 state budget allocates 500 million drams for the advancement of participatory budgeting processes in the RA communities. This funding will be provided through participatory procedures within the framework of subsidies offered to the RA communities.
The introduction of participatory budgeting processes offers an opportunity to enhance direct community involvement in budgeting processes, thereby improving the responsiveness and efficiency of public resource distribution. Community residents will now have the chance to propose ideas and programs related to their community. These proposals will be considered, discussed, chosen through community votes, and provided with the opportunity for implementation.
On November 2, 2023, the Government of the Republic of Armenia adopted Resolution No. 1890, approving the procedure for providing subsidies to communities from the 2024 State Budget of the Republic of Armenia for the implementation of programs formed through participatory budgeting. This resolution regulates budgetary programs in communities, emphasizing direct citizen participation through participatory procedures. It outlines key aspects of subsidy allocation, including the submission of proposals, discussion, and selection processes, all conducted through direct voting."
In 2024, these requirements are being extended on a trial basis to four communities, including Ashtarak in Aragatsotn Province, Abovyan in Kotayk Province, Jermuk in Vayots Dzor Province, and Armavir in Armavir Province.
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This year, the participatory budgeting system is being tested in four communities across Armenia. Public Television Company has covered the program, and you can find more information here.
The participatory budgeting process has commenced in the Armavir community of Armavir Province, and Arma TV has provided a review. Link is here. The topic was also covered by Public TV and Public Radio.