https://at-ceu.studyguide.timeedit.net/modules/DOPP5693?type=COREFormal political and electoral processes often fail to reflect the full diversity of societal perspectives, leaving many voices unheard and limiting meaningful public participation in policymaking. In Vienna, for example, around 35% of voting-age residents are excluded from elections due to their citizenship status. Participatory and deliberative policymaking creates space for broader inclusion and introduces alternative forms of democratic participation. These enable diverse communities to contribute to public decision-making processes, improving the legitimacy of government decisions, addressing real needs and fostering trust.This course offers students a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience of participatory and deliberative formats in policymaking. It combines short theoretical and ethical input with practical skill-building sessions and fieldwork in Favoriten, one of Vienna's most diverse districts, where CEU is located. Fieldwork offers students direct insight into the opportunities and challenges of participatory policymaking in the context of an urban neighborhood, as practiced in collaboration with civil society organizations and movements.The course is divided into two parts: a one-day classroom session focused on concise theory, ethics, and practical skills, and a half-day fieldwork session. In the classroom, students will be introduced to participatory methods and tools for gathering voices, opinions, and ideas that can inform small-scale policy changes. Real-world examples will be presented, and simulation techniques will be used to support learning. The session will also explore the ethical considerations involved in engaging marginalized populations and working with civil society organizations that support them.During the fieldwork, students will visit a civil society organization in Favoriten that is actively engaged in a deliberative policy process. They will learn from an expert practitioner about the practical application of theory, best practices, common challenges, and real-life examples of policy change. The session will provide insight into how citizen engagement processes are designed, facilitated, implemented, and evaluated in real-world contexts in Vienna that address community needs and influence broader policy outcomes.Through practical engagement, students will learn the tools and methods used in participatory governance and develop their stakeholder communication skills, reflecting on the complexities of involving diverse voices in public decision-making.