Citizens´ assemblies – A breath of fresh air for democracy

An engaging panel discussion brings together the political scientist Prof. Dr Uwe Wagschal from the University of Freiburg, Roland Walter, a long-standing member of Rastatt Town Council, and Dietmar Flohs, a participant in a Citizens’ Assembly. Anni Schlumberger from the “Allianz für Beteiligung” will moderate the panel discussion and the subsequent Q&A session with the audience.

During the event, the discussion will focus on the strengths, opportunities and weaknesses of citizens’ assemblies, as well as their role in a sustainable democracy. The discussion will examine whether citizens’ assemblies can strengthen trust between politicians and citizens, thereby helping to consolidate democratic structures. In addition, the discussion will explore the differences between citizens’ assemblies, citizens’ dialogues and referendums.

Another aspect of the discussion is the extent to which participation in a Citizens’ Assembly enables participants to better grasp the complexity and multifaceted nature of social issues, develop their own opinions and work out potential solutions together with other stakeholders. In particular, the criteria of the common good, a forward-looking approach, and economic and time-related feasibility will be taken into account.

The event is part of the Long Night of Democracy in Rastatt.