MAPPING POPULAR PARTICIPATION IN THE 1988 CONSTITUTION: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY OF CONSTITUTIONAL INSTRUMENTS

Authors

• Igor Rodrigues Bittencourt

Abstract

The aim of this article is to map out the instruments of popular participation in the 1988 Constitution, in order to understand which participation mechanisms are outlined in the constitutional text, as well as to analyze their effectiveness, challenges and applicability. The relevance of this work is due to the importance of fostering debates about citizen participation in public administration. The research problem addressed is: is it possible to map the mechanisms of popular participation set out in the 1988 Federal Constitution, with the aim of investigating the nature and effectiveness of these provisions? In order to answer the problem, the study was divided into three parts: to examine the historical context of popular participation in the constitutions prior to 1988; to map the constitutional provisions related to popular participation; and to analyze the effectiveness, application and challenges of the instruments of popular participation identified in the mapping of the Constitution. The hypothesis is that it is possible to carry out a survey of the constitutional provisions related to popular participation and, in a preliminary way, identify the applicability of such instruments, as well as the challenges faced by the Public Administration in guaranteeing their effectiveness. The methodology used is a bibliographical and exploratory study of scientific articles, government documents, legislation and doctrine. In conclusion, the Federal Constitution establishes a series of provisions aimed at promoting active citizen participation in public administration, both directly and indirectly. However, it is essential to recognize that mechanisms for popular participation do not represent a universal solution to all the democratic challenges facing public administration.