This article looks at the adaptation and adoption of participatory methodologies in the north. The article draws from insights the emerged at an event in April 2004, that brought together practitioners to reflect on the development of participatory processes in the UK. The article begins by looking at the context and history of participatory approaches in the North, particularly linked with unions, poverty and women's rights.
In this introductory overview on participatory processes in the North, the authors begin by examining the transfer and spread of participatory processes, from the South to the North, where poverty still remains. It summarises the major issues arising from the articles in this special issue, as well as the threats and opportunities associated with participatory processes.
This Special Issue of PLA Notes focuses on participatory approaches and processes in the North. It presents a variety of case studies where participatory techniques have been used in a range of sectors and contexts, the key linkage between them being their location in the 'North'. Participatory approaches have been increasingly adopted in northern countries, influenced by the long history of participatory practice in the South. Articles draw from experiences in Japan, USA, UK, Norway, Australia, Northern Ireland and Canada.