This paper introduces an example of a best practice in the design of public policies through participation of citizens and social agents. This initiative was conducted by the Vice-Presidency and the Department for Equality and Inclusive Policies of the Government of Valencia through the drafting of the Valencia Covenant for combating Male and Gender-based Violence of the Valencia Region (2017).
To describe this process, firstly we set out the theoretical framework for approaching the new models of governance along with the role of social work in public policy making. Next, we conduct a statistic analysis about the starting point for the Valencia region in terms of gender-based violence. Also, we then describe the participation process set out in the Covenant, along with the foremost measures.
This joint policy-making model promotes the right of participation on the part of citizens, professionals involved in gender-based violence, women’s associations, trade unions and other social agents in the design and creation of public policies related to gender-based violence.