Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the second-largest metropolis in Russia. It started using participatory budgeting in 2016 and it currently takes place in six out of the city’s 18 districts (referred to as ‘Your Budget’). While participatory budgeting is practised in multiple municipalities in Russia, the approach used in St Petersburg is fully deliberative, with citizens making the final decision about budget allocations. The members of district-based Budgeting Committees, who are selected from amongst the citizens who proposed projects, make the final decisions.

The process is supported by numerous activities to inform and mobilise citizens through a month-long information campaign, using both online and offline communication channels.