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PurposeThe paper demonstrates the use of a range of perspectives and methods to evaluate eParticipation initiatives. We argue that there is a need for coherent evaluation frameworks employing such perspectives and methods, the better to understand current eParticipation applications and learn from these experiences. ApproachA case study 2 of eParticipation evaluation for four local authority led projects from the 'top down' stream of the UK Local e-Democracy National Project is presented. Research implicationsWe argue that further research is needed in two main areas; first, on the applicability of eParticipation tools to particular contexts, and second, to integrate fieldwork methods to assess social acceptance of eParticipation and represent the diversity of views obtained from citizens, community groups and other stakeholders. Practical implicationsThe paper describes the application of the framework, demonstrates the importance of a multi-method approach, and outlines some barriers to using it. OriginalityThe described framework is a basis for further development since eParticipation evaluation is in its infancy despite strong advocacy of evaluation in e-government research and practice literature.Classification: case study

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This article examines action to address young people’s apathy to the democratic process and politics in general, by considering possibilities for using information and communication technology to engage young people. The article describes two e-democracy systems in use in Scotland, which provide young people with opportunities to participate in and understand democratic decision making. The systems are designed to allow young people to deliberate issues of importance to them. The Highland Council initiative involves young people in the design of a web site for their youth parliament with online debates and Internet voting. The Young Scot initiative is a national youth portal, including an e-democracy channel. The emphasis here is on content management and moderation of e-consultations for young people. Research indicates that democracy is best taught by practicing it and that many young people are comfortable using new information and communication technologies. These ideas form the basis of both projects.

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