Background & Purpose: the aim of this study is using a mixed methods approach,to develop a model of effective methods and tools for implementing public participation policies.
Methodology: This applied study was conducted using a mixed methods design. Qualitative data were collected through semi structured interviews and quantitative data were gathered by questionnaire. Participants were selected using purposive snowball sampling in the qualitative phase and stratified sampling in the quantitative phase. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis based on the Attride Stirling thematic network framework.
Findings: Based on the analysis of the research data, the methods for implementing public participation policies were categorized into two overarching themes: consultative participation methods (consultation with citizens and local communities, consultation with professional and expert groups, and consultation with civil and social institutions) and empowering and co creative participation methods (participation in design and decision-making, co creation of health policies, and participation in policy evaluation and revision). Likewise, the tools for implementing public participation policies were organized into two main themes: formal communicative and institutional participation tools (formal participatory institutions and structures, participatory documents and frameworks, and media, digital, and technological tools) and supportive and capacity building tools (educational and empowering tools, motivational and incentive tools, and participation monitoring and feedback tools).
Conclusion: Implementing public participation policies requires the application of a coherent set of methods and tools that can both address the consultative dimensions of participation and create the necessary conditions for citizen empowerment and co creation.