Originating in Brazil during the early 20th century, participatory budgeting has gradually been adopted worldwide. The City of Chicago, Illinois, is notable for being the first municipality to implement participatory budgeting in the United States. In 2009, the city’s 49th ward became the pioneer local government in testing this budget reform in the United States. Currently, more than 500 local governments have implemented some form of participatory budgeting, and the initiative has had a significant impact on communities—but questions about its legitimacy and significance persist.
- Publication date: June 2025
- Author: Thao Pham