Since the 1970s, various participatory methods and procedures have been developed in Germany – particularly at local and regional levels. For example, construction and planning law today require public participation. The developed methods and gained experience have also resulted in a range of formats in which consumers and the general public can participate in change and decision-making processes.

Recently, large-scale projects in particular have given new impetus to the debate over public participation in the planning process from the very beginning of such endeavors. These include the projects of the Deutsche Bahn (German Railroad) in Stuttgart and of the airport operators in Frankfurt-Main and Berlin.

To read more about participation and facilitation methods, please check out our Links which also lists some English websites.