Empowering communities and individuals for democracy and development

From Future of Local Services to the Public

Summary

Empowerment involves increasing the political, economic or political strength of particular communities or individuals. The terms has traditionally involved addressing members of communities which are thought to be excluded or marginalised from the political decision-making process. 

Increasingly 'empowered' communities are often seen as a function of the development of increasingly diverse communities in the future [1,2]. Similarly technological changes and the rise of 'social networking' is seen as bringing like-minded individuals closer together, leading to 'swaming' behaviour and 'flash mobs' [3]. In economic terms and in relation to the provision of goods and services, both the private and public sector are expected to be judged in the future by their ability to respond to more diverse needs [1,3].

Innovation

The Government's national strategy for participatory budgeting published in September 2008 is a relevant example of the way that community empowerment may develop.

Related links

1 The Tavistock Institute, Solon Consultants, LGIU, CLG (April 2006) 'All Our Futures: the challenges to local governance in 2015' www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/allourfutures

2, 3 The Cabinet Office, Strategy Unit (February 2008) 'Realising Britain's Potential: Future Strategic Challenges for Britain'
http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/strategy/work_areas/strategic_challenges0208.aspx