Trust in government, finance, media, and corporations has collapsed over two decades, driven by scandals without consequences, political polarization, rapid tech change, and rising inequality. Yet global data reveals trust is recoverable—Finland, Kenya, and Estonia prove that transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance can restore institutional credibility.
Participatory budgeting (PB) hands residents direct control over public spending decisions, transforming democracy from spectator sport to active governance. Born in Porto Alegre, Brazil, in 1989, PB has spread to over 11,500 cities worldwide, delivering measurable outcomes: improved infrastructure, increased civic trust, and redistributive justice. Yet PB faces challenges—digital divides, political resistance, and sustainability concerns—that require intentional equity design and community o...
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