Limitations and Opportunities in Citizen Science: Strengthening Its Democratic Potential

Citizen Science has emerged as a powerful tool for opening up knowledge and engaging communities in scientific research. By allowing non-scientists to contribute to data collection, analysis, and problem-solving, it fosters a more inclusive and participatory approach to science. However, despite its many strengths, Citizen Science also faces limitations — which, if addressed, can unlock new opportunities for deeper civic engagement, democratising research and make greater social impact.

Challenges in Citizen Science: What are the gaps?

While Citizen Science has the potential to transform research and society, certain structural, ethical, and democratic challenges must be considered:

Who decides research topics?

• Often, research priorities are determined by scientists or funding bodies, rather than by the communities affected by the issues.

• This top-down approach can limit the relevance of projects to local needs.

• Opportunity in EPiCS: Strengthen co-creation processes, where community members help shape research questions, ensuring projects align with real-world concerns.

The democratic connection: Linking Citizen Science to policy

• While Citizen Science could gather valuable data, there is no guarantee that policymakers will act on the findings.

• Many projects remain scientific exercises rather than influencing legislation, urban planning, or environmental protections.

• Opportunity in EPiCS: Establish stronger connections between Citizen Science initiatives and governance structures, ensuring that community-generated knowledge informs public policies.

Who gets to participate?

• Citizen Science should be inclusive, but access to technology, education, and resources can limit participation.

• Marginalized communities may have fewer opportunities to engage in scientific research.

• Opportunity in EPiCS: Adopt inclusive engagement strategies, such as:
  - Providing accessible training and resources.
  - Using low-tech, community-based approaches alongside digital tools.
  - Partner up with schools, nonprofits, and grassroots organizations to increase participation among underrepresented groups.

The role of social and political movements

• Citizen Science sometimes focuses on data collection rather than political and social change.

• Many projects lack clear links to advocacy efforts, policy action, or grassroots movements.

• Opportunity in EPiCS: Strengthen collaborations between Citizen Science projects and activist networks, enabling research to contribute directly to social justice, environmental advocacy, and community-driven change.

Addressing Ethical and Normative Questions

• Citizen Science projects rarely discuss ethical dilemmas, such as:
  - Who owns the data?
  - How is citizen-generated knowledge used?
  - Are there risks of exploitation when citizens contribute unpaid labour to research?

• Opportunity in EPiCS: Develop clear ethical frameworks, ensuring transparency in data ownership, research integrity, and community benefits.

The future of Citizen Science: Moving toward inclusion and impact

To unlock its full potential, Citizen Science must evolve beyond data collection and become a vehicle for civic engagement, policy transformation, and social innovation.

By addressing its limitations and expanding its opportunities, Citizen Science can:
- Enhance public trust in science and research literacy.
- Influence decision-making processes at local, national, and global levels.
- Ensure diverse voices are included in shaping the future of research.

EPICS integrates Citizen Science as a key strategy to empower communities, foster knowledge co-creation, and drive democratic participation in research and policy.