Pillar 2:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 16:
Increasing citizens’ participation in developing and implementing cultural policies

Turku aims to increase citizens’ participation, so the city has been implementing participatory budgeting since 2020.

This approach gives residents a direct voice in shaping their city by allowing them to propose ideas, plan projects, and vote on which initiatives should be funded.

Through this process, citizens collectively decide how a €3 million budget is allocated each year, making local governance more transparent and inclusive.

The main goal is to gather ideas on how to create more user-oriented facilities and services that enhance the well-being of Turku’s residents. Participatory budgeting also strengthens civic engagement by encouraging people to think about their shared environment and to take part in decisions that affect their everyday lives.

Residents have voted for a wide variety of projects, from pop-up art workshops and free theatre performances to street libraries and dance classes in suburban areas.

These initiatives not only enrich the city’s cultural life but also provide access to creative experiences for children and communities who might otherwise not have such opportunities.

Through participatory budgeting, Turku continues to promote active citizenship and strengthen the social fabric of the city.