Public Engagement in the GCC: Ancient Roots and Modern Tools

This document is a report that examines the evolution of public engagement within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, tracing its historical roots and exploring contemporary practices. It highlights the significance of the Majlis as a traditional form of public engagement and discusses the recent adoption of digital platforms that facilitate citizen participation in governance. The report outlines various public engagement mechanisms, including e-participation platforms like Sharek and Tafaul, which enhance accessibility for citizens. It emphasizes the importance of stakeholder inclusion in the policy design process to mitigate potential policy failures and improve outcomes. The document also details the iterative policy design cycle, which includes issue identification, policy formulation, approval, implementation, and evaluation. Furthermore, it discusses the role of public engagement in enhancing government reputation and trust among citizens, particularly among younger generations who increasingly utilize social media to voice their opinions. Overall, the report presents public engagement as a vital tool for effective policymaking.