ONLINE DEMOCRACY: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR POLITICAL PARTICIPATION IN THE CONTEXT OF THE DIGITAL STATE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32782/2786-9385/2025-5-11Keywords:
digitalization, digital state, digital democracy, political participation, information security, digital divide, digital citizenshipAbstract
This article analyzes the transformation of citizens’ political participation in the era of digitalization of public governance. It examines the phenomenon of the digital state as a new form of functioning democratic institutions, which is grounded in the active use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to ensure transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement in decision-making processes. The study focuses on the concepts of e-governance and digital democracy as integral elements of modern democratic systems, as well as their influence on mechanisms of political participation. The methodological foundation of the article is an interdisciplinary approach that combines political theory, analysis of digital practices, empirical data, and a comparative analysis of e-participation models across various countries. The study highlights key digital participation tools, including electronic voting (e-voting), online petitions, electronic consultations, participatory budgeting, and the use of social media for civic mobilization. A comparative analysis of digital democracy practices is conducted, which allows for identifying unique approaches and the effectiveness of implementing e-participation under different political and administrative-technical conditions. Special attention is given to identifying risks and challenges associated with the digitalization of democracy. It is argued that sustainable development of digital democracy requires a joint effort that integrates technological innovation, legal regulation, and the enhancement of citizens’ digital culture. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a comprehensive rethinking of the role of the citizen within the digital state, based on ethical, inclusive, and legal foundations. Further research should focus on empirically assessing the effectiveness of digital participation tools and evaluating the impact of digitalization on political awareness and citizen engagement.
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