Charter for participation in Res publica
Preamble
As a mission-driven company , Res publica has been advising project leaders for over 20 years, working together to build a just and sustainable society by fostering dialogue processes that inform decision-making . The quality of these decisions depends on the processes that produce them. In this sense, our objective is twofold :
- to ensure participatory processes are useful in decisions that concern citizens and stakeholders;
- to offer a respectful, fair and transparent , conducive to the expression of all.
This charter aims to establish the principles and commitments that guide all the consultation and citizen participation processes we support. It is addressed to the participants in the programs we facilitate, our partners and clients, as well as our own teams.
This charter outlines the values that underpin our teams' commitment to serving our clients, promoting inclusive methods and respecting all stakeholders in the participation process , particularly by excluding all forms of discrimination, harassment, and violence.
Our commitment to appropriate and inclusive dialogue methods
We believe that the quality of a consultation depends as much on the content as on the format of the discussions. That's why we apply a rigorous methodology, adaptable to each approach, designed to guarantee constructive, transparent, and decision-making-informed exchanges .
Our approach is structured around seven key, complementary steps . The first step involves defining the objectives of the consultation , in order to share its meaning and purpose with all stakeholders. The second step is identifying these stakeholders in the broadest sense, particularly to include those who are usually excluded from public debate. We then ensure that we determine the input information necessary for the discussion to proceed smoothly, and then make reliable and accessible data available , understandable by both specialists and non-experts.
Following these framing elements, the fourth step consists of designing the dialogue methodology and choosing appropriate tools (workshops, digital platforms, face-to-face meetings, or hybrid formats, etc.). Facilitating discussions is central to the process: in this respect, we place particular importance on establishing a calm and supportive environment where each stakeholder can express their point of view, free from any form of discriminatory, sexist, or violent remarks or behavior.
Following the discussions, we synthesize and communicate the results of the dialogue. Each contribution is presented honestly and transparently to ensure that everyone's voice is heard . Finally, we support project leaders in identifying lessons learned from the process and the resulting decisions , guaranteeing participants clear and reasoned feedback on how their contributions were considered.
Beyond this working methodology, we apply several overarching principles. We protect personal data and respect the image rights of each participant. We ensure that each initiative we support results in accessible and well-reasoned feedback. Finally, we are committed to continuous improvement : our methods are systematically evaluated, adjusted, and enhanced through experience, in order to better meet the needs of the public and decision-makers.
Our values in supporting our clients
Res publica is committed to ensuring the representation of diverse audiences , particularly those who are typically excluded from participatory processes (for example, people with disabilities, residents of priority neighborhoods, or young people). We implement mobilization strategies and adapted discussion methods that allow everyone to find their place in the dialogue.
Transparency and accessibility of information are essential for us to foster meaningful participation and facilitate collective intelligence. We are committed to providing all participants with clear, comprehensive, and understandable information in formats and channels adapted to the diversity of audiences.
We maintain strict neutrality in facilitating and reporting on these processes. Our role is to facilitate dialogue , enable the constructive exchange of viewpoints , and support the search for solutions , without influencing the content of decisions.
Our methods are based on respect and tolerance . We create spaces where everyone can express themselves freely in an atmosphere of mutual listening . The fight against violence and discrimination is not just a principle: it is a requirement that guides our practices and reactions at every stage of the process.
Our commitments to an environment that respects everyone
Our consultants, in their role as facilitators, are particularly attentive to provocative, offensive, sexist, racist, or discriminatory that constitutes harassment, gender-based violence, or sexual violence, and any behavior that could exert pressure on participants or disrupt the smooth running of discussions during our interventions.
Our teams are aware of and attentive to participants who may be victims of such behavior. Res publica will intervene at the first instance of discriminatory speech or behavior to remind participants of the basic rules of public discourse and, if necessary, the relevant law. If these remarks or attitudes persist, Res publica reserves the right to suspend the session . Such behavior may, for example, lead to the expulsion of a member from a Citizens' Convention (or equivalent body), based on findings established by Res publica, the organizing entity, the guarantors, or the members of the Convention. In the event of such incidents, a discussion takes place with the person concerned before the organizing entity decides, if necessary, on exclusion.
For offences falling under the law , the organizer or Res publica makes a report to the competent authorities .
Sexual violence encompasses all acts of a sexual nature committed with violence, coercion, threats, or by taking advantage of someone's vulnerability; anything that constitutes unwanted sexualization. It includes rape, sexual harassment, indecent exposure, and voyeurism. Source
Discrimination is a crime that consists of treating a person unfavorably based on a ground prohibited by law (e.g., origin, sexual orientation, etc.). Source
