정책참여의 관점에서 본 이주민 주민참여 제도연구: 지방정부의 대응과 과제

Abstract

This study examines institutional practices of immigrant citizen participation at the local government level, with a focus on identifying administrative responses and key policy challenges. The findings reveal that although many local governments have established institutional frameworks to promote immigrant participation, significant limitations persist in ensuring representation, transparency, and accountability in practice. Furthermore, a notable disparity exists between the formal structure of participation mechanisms and immigrants’ perceived level of engagement. Based on these findings, the study presents the following implications. First, local governments should implement tailored participation programs to support immigrants’ initial involvement and establish pathways toward engagement in broader regional and national policy processes. Second, differentiated participation models should be developed according to immigrant typologies, accompanied by prior capacity-building for public officials. Third, awareness programs are needed to enhance mutual understanding between immigrants and native residents. Fourth, legal and institutional measures must be adopted to guarantee immigrant rights and facilitate effective participation. Fifth, representative legitimacy should be reinforced by allowing immigrants to elect their own delegates to the Foreign Residents Council, and by institutionalizing a policy mechanism that reflects their proposals in decision-making processes.