Digital technologies have transformed how citizens participate in democracy, promising increased engagement and transparency. Despite these benefi ts, challenges such as the digital divide and misinformation compromise the integrity of online interactions. Ensuring equitable access and fostering trustworthiness in digital discourse are crucial obstacles that require innovative solutions. The solution lies in leveraging digital tools like e-participation and e-democracy platforms to enhance citizen engagement. By utilizing categorized tools—such as information portals, participatory budgeting, and e-voting systems—governments can empower citizens. Combining these with strategic ethical considerations can help mitigate challenges like exclusion and data privacy concerns. This learning unit covers digital transformation’s impact on citizen participation, offering an overview of digital tools and their applications in policy-making. It explores different interactive platforms, social communication tools, and data-driven solutions, emphasizing their role in enhancing civic engagement. Ethical issues and the future of digital public engagement are also discussed to navigate this evolving landscape.




