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Does citizen participation make public servants more satisfied with their jobs? It depends on whether they are Spectators or Participants

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  • Kazi Maruful Islam
  • Jan‐Hinrik Meyer‐Sahling
  • Kim Sass Mikkelsen
  • Taiabur Rahman
  • Christian Schuster

Abstract

Is citizen participation in policymaking and implementation desirable? Numerous studies have explored its effects on policy outcomes and citizen attitudes. We, instead, examine its effects on public servants. Citizen participation changes public sector job characteristics and thus potentially job attitudes. Looking at job satisfaction, we argue that citizen participation negatively affects public servants who observe, but do not participate in citizen participation initiatives in their institution's decisions (“Spectators”), yet not public servants who are “Participants.” “Participants” learn to appreciate the benefits of citizen participation while minimizing its cost. Survey data from public servants in one developing country, Bangladesh, provides empirical support.

Suggested Citation

  • Kazi Maruful Islam & Jan‐Hinrik Meyer‐Sahling & Kim Sass Mikkelsen & Taiabur Rahman & Christian Schuster, 2023. "Does citizen participation make public servants more satisfied with their jobs? It depends on whether they are Spectators or Participants," Public Administration & Development, Blackwell Publishing, vol. 43(5), pages 381-392, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:padxxx:v:43:y:2023:i:5:p:381-392
    DOI: 10.1002/pad.2031
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