Community-Based Monitoring: Enhancing Citizen Engagement and Policy Impact

Community-Based Monitoring (CBM) has become a widely recognized tool for strengthening citizen engagement in policy-making by actively involving communities in data creation and knowledge sharing. This process not only fosters stronger democratic ties between governments and citizens but also promotes best practices within communities. CBM serves as an umbrella term encompassing a variety of approaches, such as community scorecards, citizen science, and voluntary geographic information systems, among others.
This panel will explore the evolving landscape of CBM, offering an overview of different models across various sectors and levels of community participation. From basic data collection to deeper involvement in decision-making processes, it will highlight how local communities collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organizations to monitor and influence public policy, and create knowledge. The discussions will emphasize both the objectives and potential impacts of CBM, illustrating its dynamic role in shaping more inclusive governance and knowledge creation systems.
In addition, the panel will examine specific CBM projects, focusing on the types of data generated and the lessons learned—particularly those that are relevant to policymakers. Presentations will showcase how CBM initiatives empower communities, enhance government accountability, and lead to more effective public services, but at the same time, will reflect on the potential risks. By reflecting on the challenges and successes encountered across different regions and sectors, the panel will offer valuable insights into the transformative potential of CBM.