The city of Brno in Czechia allows citizens to directly influence how public funds are allocated through a project called Dáme na vás (It’s up to you), now in its seventh year. Whether through improving local parks, building bike lanes or organizing community events, residents can shape Czechia’s second-largest city by proposing and voting on projects that meet local needs.
Some of these initiatives, including the Environmental Education Centre Hlídka near Špilberk Castle, which provides ecological education for young children and their parents, were showcased during a political committee meeting of the European Healthy Cities Network, hosted by the city.
"Participatory budgeting is a powerful tool for involving citizens in the decision-making process. It ensures that our city's growth reflects the real needs of its residents," said Brno's Vice-Mayor Filip Chvátal.
Community-driven change
In 2023 Brno reserved 35 million crowns (about 1.42 million euros) for participatory budgeting. Each project can receive up to 203 000 euros, which means that the top 7 projects can be funded each year. Most recently, a plan to revitalize a neglected park in the Židenice district received 3500 votes, giving the playground new equipment, increasing green spaces and improving lighting for safety.
Building on this idea of community-driven change, the city carefully reviews all proposals to ensure they are feasible and compliant with legal requirements before they are put to the vote by residents over the age of 18. The projects that receive the most votes are then funded by the city and brought to life.
Introduced in 2017, Brno's commitment to participatory budgeting is part of its broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for its citizens. “By involving its residents in the budgeting process, Brno not only strengthens community engagement but also ensures that the city's development aligns with the health, well-being and happiness of its people,” Vice-Mayor Chvátal added.
Healthy Cities Network
The city of Brno is an active member of the European Healthy Cities Network, a WHO initiative that brings together cities across the WHO European Region that prioritize health and well-being in their policies and practices.
From 5 to 6 September 2024, the city of Brno hosted the Network’s political committee meeting to map its priorities. There, the “City leadership for health and sustainable development” report was launched. This resource, aimed at decision-makers and professionals, provides valuable insights and recommendations for starting, leading and implementing Healthy Cities initiatives.
If you are a city leader in the European Region seeking to amplify your city's health initiatives, you can join this impactful network by emailing eurohealthycities@who.int.