D2n Public participation in SEA
Bo Elling, Roskilde University, Denmark
Key issues to be addressed
Position Paper:
In the coming years practicing SEA will develop from single cases to a more systematic utilised process in accordance with certain rules and principles. Public participation will undoubtedly be an essential part of such steps forward. The strategic character of SEA makes public participation desirable. However, the abstract and general character of SEA also complicates such involvements. Experiences to now indicate challenges at all strategic levels for citizen involvement in SEA.
Key issues for consideration at the session on public participation at the conference will include:
• Early public participation in the identification of policy, plan or program objectives and means
• New ways and opportunities for public involvement in specific stages of the SEA process
• The type of rationality related to SEA and how it can reflect its dialogical character
• Public involvement in the process of monitoring environmental effects
• The use of information technologies and the Internet for submission of information in-between the competent authorities and the general public and concerned citizens and how it will affect the SEA process
• The issue on ownership and political responsibility to final decisions in case of actual public involvement in the SEA process.