This thesis examines public participation at the municipal level as a key element of good governance and local democracy. The theoretical part outlines fundamental concepts of participation, forms of civic engagement, the Slovenian legal framework, as well as the recommendations and principles of the Council of Europe in the field of local cooperation. The empirical part is based on a survey conducted among residents of municipalities in the Zasavje statistical region, municipal councillors, and directors of municipal administrations. The aim of the research was to determine whether public participation is carried out in accordance with the standards of the Council of Europe, which forms of participation are used, and the level of citizen satisfaction with opportunities to engage in local decision-making. The thesis contributes to a better understanding of the importance of public involvement at the local level and opens opportunities for the further development of participatory approaches that enhance the legitimacy, transparency, and effectiveness of local authorities.
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