Participatory democracy is a form of government in which people collectively make decisions for themselves, rather than having their political affairs decided by representatives. It requires citizens involvement in all sectors of society is extend beyond elections, and that citizens have some kind of direct say in decisions that affect them. This kind of political culture designs political processes where as much decision-making authority is shifted to the organization's lowest geographic level. It is based on localization, diversification and decentralization and the ability of all individuals to participate in the decision-making process. The principle is that for democratic power to be best exercised it must be vested in a local community. In all societies, even those that require participation, groups like socialeconomic disadvantaged or handicapped people, children, migrants or elderly are systematically excluded from participation because of the combined effect of various barriers. In addition, marginalized groups often experience these barriers, perceived or real, such as being made to feel unwelcome, ignored, discounted or being not understood and even endangered because they are present. In her discussion of "Earth Democracy" Vandana Shiva describes democratic participation as based on multidimensional and multifunctional expressions of creativity and productivity in humans and nature. The development of local democracy depends in a strong way from political justice, social justice and ecological awareness. A socially and politically just society where all people would have equal access to necessary material and social means to live a good life and where they have equal access to the necessary means to participate meaningfully in decisions about the things which affect their lives is both, precondition and essence of participatory and egalitarian democracy. Working in the area of social development, community organizing, education and social economy involves breaking down external and internal barriers to participation in all sectors of society and build up capacities of those who are excluded from decision processes and a good life. If we consider this approach, concerning territory and social groups as actors in participatory democracy, we can actually notice that virtual IT-spaces create a new kind of platform for participation in democracy. Social movements caring for example to reclaim and protect the commons, can build up a new and strong democratic power based on local, national and international ambitions to prevent the future of society and nature.
