Can participatory governance really improve the quality of democracy? Concentrating on democracy beyond governmental structures, this Handbook argues that it is a political task to engage individuals at all levels of governance.

The Handbook on Participatory Governance reveals that transforming governance arrangements does in fact enhance democracy and that the democratic quality of participatory governance is crucial. The contributors reflect on the notion of democracy and participatory governance and how they relate to each other. Case studies are presented from regional, national and international levels, to identify how governance can be turned into a participatory form. With chapters reviewing participatory governance?s role alongside power, science and employment relations, innovative ideas for future progress in participatory governance are presented.

Academics and postgraduate students with an interest in governance and public policy will find this Handbook a useful guide for further and future research. Practitioners interested in improving citizen participation will also benefit from the insight into increasing participation at every level of governance.

Contributors include: R. Atkinson, B. Denters, F. Fischer, B. Geißel, M. Haus, H. Heinelt, P. Heß, P.-J. Klok, N. Kortendiek, K.-O. Lindgren, S. McKay, T. Persson, T. Pogrebinschi, T. Saretzki, R. Schmalz-Bruns, W. Schroeder, S.J. Silvia, J. Steffek, J. Steiner, P. Stolzenberg, B. Wampler, M.E. Warren, K. Zimmermannis