Exploring the Nexus between Transparency and Citizens’ Intention to Participate in Climate Change Policy-Making

Abstract

This study aims to explore strategies that can propel informed and inclusive citizen engagement in shaping climate policy that addresses the formidable challenge of climate change and shapes a more sustainable future for all. To this end, the researcher endeavored to unpack the complex interplay and mechanisms at play in this relationship through an in-depth investigation into the four mediating factors, efficacy, awareness, concern, and attitude, and four pathways that link transparency to citizen intentions to participate in climate policy-making. The researcher constructed a conceptual model with mediators and serial multi-mediators that incorporates relationships between variables based on research hypotheses. To test these research hypotheses and estimate the conceptual model, structural equation modeling (SEM) and phantom models representing specific indirect effects of the covariance structure model were applied, .using AMOS Ver. 26.0. The sample consisted of 500 adults selected through a proportionate stratified sample design. Research findings confirmed that the overall fit of this research model was deemed appropriate, and the direct effect and indirect effect of transparency on citizens’ intention to participate in climate change policy-making is confirmed. Based on model fit, the researcher proposed a Transparency–Engagement Nexus Model that shows the relationship between transparency and citizens’ intention to participate in climate change policy-making. The theoretical and practical implications of these research findings were addressed, and future research directions were also suggested.