Although much has been done to decentralize democratic processes throughout the region of the Americas, more often than not, these processes are defined around traditional aspects of citizenship such as voting and planning. Participation, particularly at the interface of communities and their governments, has stopped short of emphasizing systems for joint financial management that would assure downward accountability. Read more>>

Harvard and MIT alumni have developed a methodology that assists local communities throughout Latin America in strengthening democracy and solving their own problems related to security, health, education, and general quality of life. Read more>>

Through the survey research method, Bulacan, Philippines, has placed project planning into a higher plane, one that sets aside political interests. "Surveys make decisions apolitical," Governor Josefina dela Cruz says. Proof that it is not politically costly, she says, is the fact that "I'm still here." Read more>>

"The authors offer a host of indispensable lessons for citizens and policymakers in diverse domains, including education, pollution, national security, and health care. At the same time, Full Disclosure is an important contribution to democratic theory--and a great read to boot." -- Cass Sunstein, University of Chicago Law School. For more information, click here.

Indian Nations are developing unique programs and policies to strengthen their cultures and communities:

Navajo Nation Methamphetamine Task Force:  Incorporating participation from elders, youth, recovered addicts and current users, law enforcement, health officials, and policy makers to embrace "The Beauty Way of Life," the Task Force is systematically combating what many view as the Nation's most dire crisis in recent history. Read more>>

Bad River Recycling/Solid Waste Department: The Bad River program provides an example of how a community can develop and implement a mission to keep its lands, animals, harbors, and people safe and healthy, and most importantly, honor their cultural philosophy by being good stewards of their environment. Read more>>

Akwesasne Freedom School: Through the ongoing efforts of parents, families, and the Mohawk Nation, AFS plays a critical role in the formation of Mohawk identity, citizenship, and nationhood. Read more>>

Click here for additional award-winning programs in Tribal Nations.

The final report of the Commission on Legal Empowerment of the Poor, the first global initiative to focus on the link between exclusion, poverty, and the law has launched its final report, which can be downloaded here.

The EUKN is an authoritative European urban network with substantial support in 15 European Union member states. It acts as a link between existing networks of policy makers, decision makers and others in the field. The website has 2075 studies and 1850 practical examples as well as other products and services.