True participation? Citizen’s Assemblies as a Solution for Climate Policies

Citizen’s Assemblies are samples of the general population of a city, often selected by lottery, that gather to discuss and advise on important public questions. Environmental activists across Europe are calling for cities to implement them in an effort to counter the industry sector’s weight on current climate policies, and many cities are responding to the call.

This investigation looks at how these assemblies were set up and delivered in cities across Italy (Milan, Bologna) and The Netherlands (Rotterdam), to understand how and when Citizen’s Assemblies are able to provide valuable input to achieve climate goals – and restore people’s trust in local democracy.

Photo by Angeniet Berkers (Vers Beton) - Burgerberaad Klimaat