Participation and democracy: old and new challenges

Abstract

This essay is the result of an exploratory research that has raised issues and problems related to political practice of social movements in the city of São Paulo, during he administration of the former major Marta Suplicy (2001-2004). It's an effort on identifying the defies, possibilities and constraints, with emphasis in the relationship between social movements and political system. Key words: Political participation; Democracy; Social movements; São Paulo.