Digital participation framework for mountain areas in Serbia

Abstract

Planning practice in Serbia is influenced by the transition to more efficient governance, including the digitalization of public administration. Urban areas adapt faster to new requirements in comparison to digital transition in rural areas (RA) and mountain areas (MA). This research aims to provide an understanding of the contextual factors for digital public participation in MA in the example of Serbia, with a focus on the Golija-Studenica Biosphere Reserve. The analysis is based on the contextual factors recognized in the recent literature and their testing through the available statistical data. The results suggest that RA, especially MA, have advantages in comparison to the national average only regarding a smaller share of vulnerable groups, including women. On the other hand, disadvantages are an aging population, a low level of technological equipment, and accessibility to technological advancement and knowledge. Findings suggest that future public participation formats in MA should be hybrid.