Citizens´ assemblies: What if all residents deliberated together?
What role does consultation play amongst residents in an ‘expanded democracy’? Citizens’ assemblies are experiencing a resurgence in many countries. Collectif citoyens Arve-Lac, SeymazVie, Collectif durabilité, Agir pour la vie and Les Changeurs are inviting residents of Geneva to take part in a simulated mini public focusing on … precisely the topic of establishing citizens’ assemblies!
The main aim is to explore, within a limited timeframe, what a Citizens’ Assembly might look like. This space for dialogue and citizen participation is organised by active citizens’ initiatives from the Arve-Lac region and is open to all.
The proposed programme is as follows (duration: 4 hours; a lunch break will be provided and is included):
- Introduction to the topic, the workshop’s objectives and the organising initiatives (15 mins)
- Thematic introduction: a hypothetical project centred on an initiative to permanently establish citizens’ assemblies in Geneva (20 mins)
- Mock random selection: forming diverse groups based on characteristics such as age, gender, education and place of residence (20 mins)
- Discussion groups of 5 to 8 people – Suggested question: ‘Should a Citizens’ Assembly be permanently established in Geneva – at cantonal, city or municipal level?’ (35 mins)
- Lunch break (45 mins)
- Continuation of the discussion rounds; statement from each group (45 mins)
- Plenary discussion: joint statement (45 mins)
- Closing remarks (15 mins)
Moderator
- Dr Victor Luca Sanchez-Mazas, UNIGE, introduction to the topic and moderation
- Dr Marlyne Sahakian, UNIGE, moderation Organisers / Members of the Collectifs
Register now!