PARTICIPATORY BUDGETING IN THE SUBJECT FIELD OF SOCIOLOGY AND PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

Badalov Elmar Nizamievich

The article examines participatory (initiative) budgeting within the disciplinary fields of sociology and public administration, conceptualizing it as a socio-administrative mechanism for involving citizens in decisions about the allocation of public funds. Participatory budgeting is interpreted as a hybrid practice that combines administrative procedures with civic self-organization grounded in the principles of direct and deliberative democracy. From a sociological perspective, it functions as a tool for developing social capital, strengthening local communities, and fostering collective action. From a managerial standpoint, participatory budgeting enhances transparency, public accountability, and the responsiveness of budget policies to local needs. The study argues that analysing participatory budgeting requires integrating sociological and administrative approaches, since effectiveness depends on trust, communication practices, and the inclusion of diverse social groups. The development of participatory budgeting in Russia calls for institutional support, regulatory frameworks, educational and communication programmes, and advanced digital tools. Particular attention is paid to participation barriers and risks of unequal access, highlighting the need for mechanisms to include vulnerable groups. The article concludes that participatory budgeting has significant potential to strengthen democratic institutions, increase the resilience of municipal governance, and transform models of interaction between authorities and society.

Keywords:participatory budgeting; sociology of governance; citizen participation; collective action; social capital; public administration; democratic innovation; local development.