Lack of Citizen Participation

Definition

When citizens fail to actively engage in the democratic process by exercising their rights and responsibilities, such as voting, attending public meetings, or contacting elected officials.

Related terms

Political Apathy: Indifference or lack of interest in political affairs. This can contribute to a lack of citizen participation.

Low Voter Turnout: When a small percentage of eligible voters actually cast their ballots during elections. It is one indicator of a lack of citizen participation.

Democracy Deficit: Refers to a situation where citizens' voices are not adequately heard or represented in the decision-making processes of government institutions. It can result from a lack of citizen participation.