As we enter a new century, the old models of governance, political mobilization and pursuit of collective goals are being fundamentally rethought and reshaped. Linkages among governments, communities, the voluntary sector, and citizens are being redefined under the pressures of declining trust, perceived shrinking social capital, and a basic redesign of the role of the state.

Introduced in 1998, Rethinking Citizen Engagement has provided leaders with insight and guidance in addressing the pivotal issue of citizen consultation and involvement in initiatives led by the public or corporate sectors. This study grew out of the need to better understand the problems faced by organizations in an environment characterized by rising disaffection and scepticism among citizens, and a greater desire for participation in decision-making.

Against the backdrop of rising economic optimism, globalization and a renewed public interest in actively producing a secure and healthy society, formidable challenges are confronting policy and decision-makers in government, the third and private sectors. It is EKOS' view that many of the forces producing increased demands for citizen engagement are rooted in the same social and economic forces driving renewed interest in voluntarism, "civic virtue" and quality of life.

Despite efforts made by many government departments and, more recently, by the federal and provincial governments with the Social Union Framework Agreement, Canadians express relatively high levels of scepticism about the extent to which governments are taking into account citizens' views and interests when making decisions. EKOS' research has shown that a majority of Canadians have, at best, tepid views about current government consultation efforts. This has not, however, dampened citizen's desire for greater inclusion in the decision-making process

For further information about this year's study, Citizen Engagement and Social Cohesion -Moving from Theory to Practice, please contact Patrick Beauchamp at pbeaucha@ekos.com or at (613) 235 7215.