A Conceptual Framework for Fostering Stakeholder Participation in Budgetary Processes and Fiscal Policy Decision-Making

• Author(s): Comfort Iyabode Lawal ; Solomon Christopher Friday ; Damilola Christiana Ayodeji ; Adedamola Sobowale
• Paper ID: 1703975
• Page: 553-577
• Published Date: 31-01-2023
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 6 Issue 7 January-2023

Abstract

This study proposes a conceptual framework for fostering stakeholder participation in budgetary processes and fiscal policy decision-making, emphasizing democratic engagement, public trust, and responsive government spending. In contemporary governance, participatory budgeting has emerged as a pivotal strategy for aligning fiscal decisions with the priorities of citizens and stakeholders. However, challenges such as limited access to information, weak institutional mechanisms, and low civic engagement hinder effective stakeholder involvement. This paper addresses these gaps by developing a multi-dimensional framework grounded in principles of transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and iterative feedback. The framework integrates stakeholder theory, participatory governance, and fiscal transparency models to highlight the interdependencies between citizen engagement, trust in public institutions, and fiscal policy outcomes. It identifies four core pillars: institutional openness, stakeholder capacity building, inclusive platforms for dialogue, and feedback-driven fiscal adjustments. These pillars aim to create a participatory ecosystem where stakeholders—including civil society organizations, private sector actors, and marginalized communities—can meaningfully contribute to budget planning, allocation, and monitoring processes. Through a review of existing literature, case studies, and comparative governance models, the study reveals that when stakeholders are actively involved, budgetary processes become more transparent and reflective of societal needs. Moreover, such engagement strengthens accountability, enhances the legitimacy of fiscal decisions, and fosters public trust. The framework also outlines mechanisms for digital participation and data-driven tools that facilitate real-time consultation and policy feedback. This conceptualization is significant for policymakers and development practitioners aiming to bridge the gap between technocratic fiscal planning and democratic responsiveness. It serves as a guide for designing participatory fiscal governance strategies that prioritize equity, sustainability, and community ownership of development outcomes. The framework is adaptable to diverse socio-political contexts and can be operationalized through policy reforms, civic education, and technological innovation.

Keywords

Stakeholder Participation, Budgetary Processes, Fiscal Policy, Democratic Engagement, Public Trust, Government Responsiveness, Participatory Budgeting, Fiscal Transparency, Inclusive Governance, Policy Decision-Making.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Comfort Iyabode Lawal , Solomon Christopher Friday , Damilola Christiana Ayodeji , Adedamola Sobowale "A Conceptual Framework for Fostering Stakeholder Participation in Budgetary Processes and Fiscal Policy Decision-Making" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 6 Issue 7 2023 Page 553-577

IEEE:
Comfort Iyabode Lawal , Solomon Christopher Friday , Damilola Christiana Ayodeji , Adedamola Sobowale "A Conceptual Framework for Fostering Stakeholder Participation in Budgetary Processes and Fiscal Policy Decision-Making" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 6(7)