The Digital Shift: Review and Landscape of e-Participation

The concept of citizen participation in policymaking has evolved significantly since Arnstein's seminal work in the 1960s. Macintosh's introduction of electronic participation (e-participation) in 2004 marked a significant shift towards utilizing digital technologies to enhance democratic engagement. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution, foundational principles, key concepts, diverse benefits, and multifaceted challenges associated with e- Participation. The analysis systematically organized the research landscape into five distinct periods, each highlighting the advancements, key themes, and focal areas that have shaped the field over time. Additionally, the paper explores the wide-ranging benefits of e-Participation, such as increased levels of citizen engagement, enhancing the transparency and accessibility of decision-making processes, and offering user-friendly technological platforms. In addition, it addresses the challenges that hinder the effective implementation of e-Participation, including complex technological barriers, varying levels of digital literacy, and intricate socio-political dynamics. The review concludes by providing critical insights into current research methodologies employed within this domain. It offers a forward-looking perspective on potential future directions and emerging trends in e-Participation studies.