Viral engagement? The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on e‑participation

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic caused an increased use and a normalization of digital technologies in almost all realms of life. Therefore, it would have been expected to see substantial changes in the participation of citizens in politics using digital means, namely e‑participation platforms. This article investigates the impact of the pandemic on e‑participation from an interdisciplinary perspective grounded in information systems and political science. Our qualitative analysis of nine expert interviews with leading platform operators presents clear indications for a substantial increase in demand for e‑participation services. However, we did not find that platform designs and business models of e‑participation underwent substantial shifts that could be attributed to the dynamics of the pandemic. Platform operators saw little reason to adapt their business models to the social and political consequences of the pandemic, but proved to be well adapted by default. Thus, identified challenges remained largely unaddressed: E‑participation platforms continue to struggle to include young people and marginalized groups that are traditionally underrepresented in participation processes. We did, however, find indications for some shifts among clients and participants. The interviewees report a profound shift in attitudes towards e‑participation. Furthermore, due to the exposure to digital technologies during the pandemic, clients and participants seemingly increased their capacities to handle the technological tools used in e‑participation formats. Especially older citizens were able to enhance their capacities to get involved. In addition, platform operators frequently stress the complementary character of digital and in-person elements for successful and inclusive participation processes.