One of the features of the IOPD network is that it is a plural space open to different membership categories:

• Municipalities and local administrations interested in promoting, exchanging impressions and developing policies of participatory democracy become IOPD associate members.
• Institutions, associations, foundations and other organizations linked to local governments and committed to the development of participatory democracy become collaborating members.
• Study and research centres and universities that carry out analysis in the field of participatory democracy also become collaborating members.

IOPD members participate by:

• Contributing innovative citizen-participation experiences and resources to the corresponding databases on the IOPD website.
• Becoming a candidate city for the IOPD Distinction for Good Practice in Citizen Participation.
• Participating actively in the organization and development of debates, meetings and forums promoted by the IOPD.
• Proposing subjects for analysis and research
• Coordinating, stimulating and participating in IOPD work groups.
• Promoting the development of participatory policies through their respective organizations.
• Making decisions on IOPD management.

To become a member of the IOPD network, the following application form should be filled out. When the application is approved by email, a password will be sent to provide access to the private area for members.

Joining the IOPD does not involve paying membership fees. Instead, each member undertakes to finance its own activities and pay any travel expenses incurred.