Q 31 - How to move from participation to engagement and co-creation, transforming participation in a cultural behaviour?#
General answer#
To move from participation to engagement and co-creation, transforming it into a cultural behaviour, it is essential to foster transparency, trust, and inclusivity from the outset by involving stakeholders early and aligning their diverse objectives through effective communication. This requires adapting communication to different stakeholder types, creating spaces for meaningful interaction, and dedicating time and resources to build relationships. To embed this as a cultural norm, the process must emphasise collaboration, mutual knowledge creation, and the demonstration of the tangible benefits of participation, supported by government commitment and consistent, transparent decision-making that values shared ownership and accountability. Promoting capacity-building and Ocean Literacy in the process could also be beneficial.