---
url: "https://questionstar.com/use-cases/citizen-participation/"
title: "Citizen participation — QUESTIONSTAR"
description: "Token links for participation processes — each vote exactly once. Accessible via screen reader, available in 100+ languages, GDPR-compliant hosting in Germany."
lastmod: "2026-07-08"
type: "marketing"
---

# Citizen surveys where every vote counts once — and everyone can take part.

Each invitation can be used only once. Surveys work with screen readers, can be provided in over 100 languages, and are hosted GDPR-compliant in Germany.

- [See templates](/templates#kat-buerger)

*Free, no time limit, no credit card.*

## A few gaps — and the process is up for debate.

One person with several devices. A citizen with no internet access. A participant with a different native language.

A few gaps — and the whole result is up for debate.

Then participation is there — but the process is up for debate.

## Four working mechanics, not four marketing promises.

### Every vote only once

When an invitation can be used multiple times, the whole result is quickly called into question. Token links make sure every participation stays unique.

### Participation without barriers

Surveys have to work for people who don't operate them visually, too. They're usable with screen readers and proven in practice.

### Many languages, one survey

Different languages often lead to several versions. Here respondents choose their own language — and everything comes together in one analysis.

### Review by IT and data protection

When a process is reviewed internally, concrete answers count. Hosting in Germany, GDPR-compliant, DPA available.

## Each invitation can be used exactly once.

A separate access is generated for each person. After participation, the link is used up.

Bulk creation for large distribution lists. Configurable expiry date. Send directly from the system or as CSV. Short links for SMS or printed letters — e.g. qs.st/1118F751.

That turns an open survey into a controlled process.

[More on distribution & token delivery](#)

## Participation works with screen readers, too.

Surveys come with ARIA tags and have been used with screen readers in practice.

The feature came about at a customer's request — for a survey with visually impaired participants. It worked, with limitations on question types that are generally hard to make accessible (e.g. sliders without steps).

There's no formal certification. For many participation processes, that's sufficient.

## When many languages come together.

In many municipalities, citizens don't speak the same language.

Surveys can be provided automatically in over 100 languages. Respondents choose their own language.

The results stay comparable.

## Four participation scenarios where it really helps.

### Climate plan

When many interests collide, people quickly question whether the results hold up. A clear process makes the difference here.

### Traffic planning

On controversial topics especially, double voting has to be ruled out. Token links make every contribution clearly traceable — even under political pressure.

### Urban land-use planning

Longer surveys often get interrupted. Respondents can continue later — the token stays valid until completion.

### Participatory budgeting

When proposals are prioritized, the process has to be transparent. Token logic and quota control keep the result robust.

## What you should know upfront.

**Can we prevent multiple participation?**

Yes, via single-use token links. Bulk creation, one-time use per link, configurable expiry date.

**Does it work with screen readers?**

Yes, ARIA tags are maintained throughout and have been tested in practice. Not every question type is equally suitable (sliders without steps are problematic). There's no formal certification.

**Which languages are supported?**

Over 100 languages automatically. Respondents choose their own language.

**Where is the data stored?**

In German IONOS data centers. Details on security and GDPR compliance on /security.

**What happens with many participants at once?**

For larger surveys we recommend staggered invitations over several days. That keeps response times stable.

**Who processes data besides QUESTIONSTAR?**

Hosting is via IONOS (Germany). Email delivery via SendGrid (US, with standard contractual clauses). CDN via Microsoft Azure Frankfurt. Details on /security. For strict EU-only procurement, please coordinate in advance.

**Can we customize branding?**

Yes, logo and colors are customizable. Custom domain optional — as a paid add-on with DNS setup.

**Can we set quotas?**

Yes, by demographics, region or age group. Important for representative citizen surveys.

**Can we publish results?**

Yes, aggregated results can be shared publicly — important for the transparency obligation in participation processes.

## Ready for a citizen survey that holds up?

You can start right away. No contract, no commitment. Stop whenever you like.

- [See templates](/templates#kat-buerger)