Digital mechanisms for public participation in crisis management of post-war recovery based on digital technologies

This paper examines the methodological foundations for studying digital mechanisms of public participation in crisis management during Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction. The author conceptualizes these mechanisms as complex socio-technical systems that integrate institutional, technological, and social dimensions. Employing a systems approach, the research illuminates the interaction between e-participation components within the turbulent post-war environment. The institutional lens enables analysis of formal and informal ‘rules of the game’ that structure the space of online democracy. The participatory focus emphasizes citizens’ role as co-creators of recovery and reconstruction policy. The network perspective highlights the horizontal, collaborative nature of digital communication amongst stakeholders. Particular attention is devoted to the potential of decentralized information platforms (blockchain, DAO) in synergy with big data and artificial intelligence. International case studies illustrate the distinctive features of e-engagement in post-war settings. Based on this analysis, the paper proposes a conceptual model for a digital ecosystem of public participation tailored to post-war Ukraine’s realities (Rebuild Ukraine e-Participation Ecosystem, RUEP). The research outlines implementation prospects and challenges for the coming years. The methodology integrates general scientific approaches, specialized methods for analyzing digital participation, and cross-disciplinary and cross-cultural perspectives. This paper should interest e-democracy researchers, public administration practitioners, and civic activists.