Dichotomies in democratic participation: conformation and disillusionment in Brazilian urban planning

Abstract This study analyzes the contradictions of democratic participation in Brazilian urban planning, examining the gap between the discourse of inclusion and practices that perpetuate socio-spatial inequalities. The objective is to investigate the limitations of participatory processes and propose alternatives to transform them into tools for social justice. Using a deductive method and a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, the study employed a literature review and secondary data analysis from academic studies, official documents, and legislation. Cases such as the Porto Maravilha Project, the Minha Casa Minha Vida Program, and the Participatory Budget of Porto Alegre were analyzed. The study concludes that transformation requires effective decentralization, equity in processes, and civic engagement, which are essential for ensuring the right to the city and promoting social justice.