1

Why the project matters

Many public authorities in the Mediterranean region lack the capacity, tools, and systems to involve citizens in shaping policies and services. For example, in 2022, in Tuscany, 76% of applications to fund participative processes came from local authorities, but only 8% from citizen groups. Participatory processes are often led by institutions, with little input from other groups. While digitalization offers potential for democratization, low funding, limited security, and unclear rules slow the development of safe and accessible participation tools. Active engagement is also harder when people face urgent socio-economic challenges, leaving many, especially vulnerable groups, excluded from decisions.

2

What it aims to achieve

• To share, adapt, and use practical tools that help governments and communities work together more effectively across the Mediterranean region.
• To improve public services by strengthening participatory governance and supporting a just green transition in local territories.

 

3

Expected change

• Enhanced capacity of public authorities and key actors to involve citizens in planning and delivering just, green public services.
• Improved coordination across local and regional levels to manage participatory governance for a just transition.

4

What the project delivers

• Situational Analysis Report mapping participatory governance and JUST transition in 6 Mediterranean territories, based on research, interviews, and public surveys, to inform local action and tool development.
• Toolkit for Participatory Governance and Just Transition, combining offline and digital tools to help public authorities and civil society engage citizens effectively in shaping fair, green policies and service
• Transnational Capacity Building Programme, training public authorities, Civil Society Organisations, and digital ambassadors to apply the Toolkit, ensuring skills and knowledge are built across all project areas.
• Pilot actions run in 6 sites (Peccioli, Italy / Great Karak Municipality and Unmm el-Jimal, Jordan / Jezzine Municipality, Lebanon / Sfax, Tnisia / Tulkarm, Palestine) to test the o-line (challenge mapping) tool proposed within the JADEITE Tool Kit and selected off-line tools for participatory governance.Policy Paper with evidence-based recommendations for improving participatory governance in green transition planning, supporting institutional change and policy uptake.

 

5

Who benefits

• 500+ citizens per pilot territory, including vulnerable groups, refugees, and migrants, engaged in public decisions through accessible, trustworthy participation channels.
• Local and regional public authorities improving staff capacity and policy, quality for fair, green services in at least 6 territories.
• 10+ civil society organisations gaining better tools and stronger influence on public policy through structured participation.
• Experts from academia and service providers contributing knowledge to shape inclusive governance and just transition policies.
• 5+ additional local councils and 5+ regions outside the partnership supported through knowledge transfer and replication.
• Wider communities benefiting from more inclusive, responsive public services and long-term improvements in quality of life.