Events

Location: Ann Harding Conference Centre, Building 24, University of Canberra, 24 University Dr S, Bruce ACT 2617, Australia

The masterclass series 'Deliberative Democracy in Action' is designed to provide in-depth understanding of deliberative practices and democratic innovation, informed by knowledge of both international and Australian experience.  

It is an initiative of the Centre of Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance - widely recognised as the leading global centre for the study of deliberative democracy.

The masterclasses will explore critical questions, including:

• How should questions regarding representation factor in the design of deliberative processes? How can inclusive and balanced participation be achieved?
• How can deliberative practices be consequential and achieve impact? How are they effectively embedded within policy-making structures?
• How can deliberative practices contribute to building democratic resilience? How can they strengthen the public sphere through tackling contentious or difficult topics?

Through in-depth examination of these critical questions with leading experts in the deliberative democracy field, these masterclasses will equip participants with the insights and skills needed to strategically apply deliberative processes to complex societal challenges.

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Location: Online,

Would you like to receive suggestions for your policy, improve your communication with citizens, show your proximity to citizens? You can achieve all of this if you are competent in the field of citizen participation.

In this online workshop, you will learn about the opportunities and risks of citizen participation from the perspective of councillors. You will find out what possible applications and suitable instruments are available and learn how to assess them. You will discuss when and how it is worthwhile to initiate participation and to act in participation processes yourself if necessary. You will learn how to assess the quality of participation results and how to incorporate them into your work if necessary. This will enable you to discuss the meaning, purpose and implementation of participation on an equal footing with the administration.

Participation in this workshop organised by the Saxony Citizen Participation Experience and Advice Network (EBBS) is free of charge.

Location: Dominikanerhaus, Grünmarkt 1, 4400 Steyr, Austria

The Climate Assembly in Austria was a result of the climate referendum in June 2020, which was supported by almost 400,000 people. There are many reasons in favour of a strong citizens' climate assembly, as the active participation of the population is central to this.

In a discussion with a member of the Climate Assembly, the participants of the event will talk about the democratic format of citizen participation, resonance in politics and progress on the path to climate neutrality.

Advance booking costs: € 9

Seats available: 33

An event organised by the Dominikanerhaus Steyr.

Location: Zentralbibliothek Düsseldorf, Konrad-Adenauer-Platz 1, 40210 Düsseldorf

Our democracy is under pressure. How do we organise political participation, how do we deal with pluralism, how do we strengthen the struggle for the best compromise? How can we create a culture of debate that can withstand a diversity of opinions?

At the ‘4th Long Night of Politics’, you can discuss with experts from politics, academia, civil society and the media about self-image and attitudes in a democracy, rights and freedoms, internal security and defence as well as the influence of artificial intelligence and disinformation on the democratic process.

At the Central Library in Düsseldorf on 16 May from 21:30, the topic will be ‘Democracy of the future’. The panellists will be

• Alexandra Geese, Member of the European Parliament (Greens/EFA)
• Paulina Fröhlich, Progressives Zentrum, Berlin
• Nico Lange, Senior Fellow of the Munich Security Conference

Moderator: Charleen Floijn

An event organised by the Konrad Adenauer Foundation

More information

Location: Flensburg Town Hall, Citizens' Hall, Rathausplatz 1, 24937 Flensburg

Flensburg's first citizens' jury is picking up speed. With an ambitious participation process, the city of Flensburg wants to involve citizens more closely in political decisions. The focus is on the topic of mobility.

Flensburg will be one of two municipalities in Schleswig-Holstein to organise a citizens' jury followed by a referendum. On 1 October 2024, the main committee of Flensburg's city council decided to take part in the funded model project Climate Meets Municipality, in which the towns of Osterburg in Saxony-Anhalt and Pinneberg in Schleswig-Holstein are also participating.

The citizens‘ jury will consist of 30 Flensburg residents , who will be randomly selected from the residents’ register. All residents of Flensburg aged 16 and over, regardless of their citizenship, have the opportunity to be selected. The aim is to put together a group that is as representative as possible in terms of age, gender, education and neighbourhood.

Following consultations with experts and extensive discussions in up to six meetings, the citizens' jury will develop solutions for transport planning in the city of Flensburg. Whether these are implemented will ultimately be decided by the voting population of Flensburg in a referendum. All citizens are called upon to vote on some of the citizens' jury's recommendations at the ballot box. The result is binding.

The City of Flensburg invites you to an information event on Saturday, 17 May 2025 at 11 a.m. in the citizens' hall of Flensburg Town Hall. The city will provide information about the Flensburg process relating to the citizens' jury and the referendum on mobility transition. The debate on the future of mobility in Flensburg will then begin. A mobility expert from the German Institute of Urban Affairs will take part in the discussion.

Participation is free of charge, but registration via Eventbrite is required. Alternatively, you can also register here:

• Email: buergerbeteiligung@flensburg.de
• Telephone: 0461- 85 1836 / 0461 - 85 2357

Catering will be provided.

All people are welcome in Flensburg. The event will be organised inclusively. The organisers would be pleased if you could contact them in advance if you require assistance for a barrier-free visit to the event.

Location: 14th & V, 2021 14th St NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20009, USA

Join Busboys and Poets to learn how deliberative democracy can reinvigorate citizen engagement and address key deficits in our society and our governance structures

Drawing on extensive field research across four countries, author Marjan H. Ehsassi provides in-depth case studies of citizens' assemblies in France, Belgium, Canada, and the United States. Through surveys, interviews, and participant observation, she developed an innovative framework for examining civic engagement across five key dimensions: learning, connectedness and belonging, enthusiasm, political activity, and consequential voice.

Drawing on extensive international research, Activated Citizenship provides:

• An introduction to Voice Insecurity, a new concept describing inadequate access to meaningful voice in representative democracies;
• A new definition for Activated Citizenship, consisting of five variables and a methodology to examine responsive and inclusive engagement;
• A multi-methods, data-driven approach and analysis of four international Citizens’ Assemblies presented as case studies;
• Evidence-based recommendations on how to Design for Legitimacy and Transformative Citizens' Assemblies; and,
• A Blueprint for Democratic Renewal - a more responsive and inclusive culture of engagement.

At a time when many are questioning the health of our society from an epidemic of loneliness and lack of belonging, division and polarization to disengagement from political institutions, this book offers practical solutions and both hope for civic renewal.

Marjan H. Ehsassi is joining us on the Busboys stage to share more about this “blueprint for democratic renewal and reactivated citizenship” (Hélène Landemore, Professor of Political Science, Yale University, USA, and author of Open Democracy). Copies of the book will be available for purchase during and after the event, and Ehsassi will be signing following the program.

This event is free and open to all. Our program begins at 6:00 pm, and will be followed by an audience Q&A. Copies of ACTIVATED CITIZENSHIP will be available for purchase before and after the event. Please note that this event is in person and will not be livestreamed.

We ask that guests RSVP in order to receive direct updates about the event from Busboys and Poets Books

Marjan H. Ehsassi is the Executive Director of FIDE - North America (the Federation for Innovation in Democracy North America; fide.eu/north-america). She is a Future of Democracy Fellow (non-resident) at the Berggruen Institute; a Senior Innovations Fellow at the Institute for Democratic Engagement and Accountability (IDEA at OSU); and on the Democratic Innovations’ Governing Council of the American Political Science Association (APSA). A former litigator, she is a skilled advocate, strategic policy advisor and a movement builder. She has been deeply involved in the research, design and implementation of several citizens’ assemblies in France, Belgium, Canada and the US. She served as one of four guarantors of the French Citizens’ Convention on the End of Life and on the Oversight Committee of the G1000 We Need to Talk Citizens’ Panels. Marjan’s first book "Activated Citizenship - The Transformative Power of Citizens’ Assemblies" was published in August 2024.

Location: University of Applied Sciences, Room 6.007 | Main Campus Reuteallee 36, 71634 Ludwigsburg

She is versatile, full of ideas and unconventional: over the decades, Gisela Erler has taken on exciting roles in favour of the participation and protest of people and groups who are not listened to enough in the political debate. As a researcher, politician and successful entrepreneur, the daughter of SPD politician Fritz Erler has fought, campaigned, argued and worked for an equal and fair society. As a close confidante at the cabinet table of Green Minister President Winfried Kretschmann from 2011, she played a key role in implementing the ‘policy of being heard’ and in making Baden-Württemberg the model state for citizen participation in Europe today.

What to expect

Gisela Erler, former State Councillor for Civil Society and Citizen Participation, shares her experiences and perspectives from 10 years of state government on the importance of citizen participation in today's world.

Welcome and introduction

Prof Dr Birgit Schenk

Discussion with

• Ulrich Arndt, Head of the Service Centre for Dialogue-based Citizen Participation
• Anna-Lisa Bohn, Mayor of the municipality of Ellenberg and alumna of the HVF
• Anni Schlumberger, Managing Director of the Alliance for Participation

Moderation: Vanessa Watkins, Hannes Wezel

Registration for students via the registration system (ID 1318)

Registration for external participants by email to sabine.schmidt@hs-ludwigsburg.de

An event organised by the Ludwigsburg University of Applied Sciences

Location: University of Zurich, Room KOL G 201 Aula, Rämistr. 71, 8006 Zurich, Switzerland

Assistant Professor Hannah Werner will give her inaugural lecture at the University of Zurich on the topic of ‘Democracy in Transition: Citizens Perspectives on Decision-Making in Times of Crisis’.

Her research focuses on democratic preferences, democratic innovations and democracy and climate change.

Location: Campus Leuphana University Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335 Lüneburg

How can we not only defend our democratic achievements, but also revitalise them? This is the central question of this year's Helmut Schmidt Future Festival, to which Leuphana University of Lüneburg, together with the weekly newspaper Die Zeit and the Federal Chancellor Helmut Schmidt Foundation, is inviting 100 young people from Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

In the face of authoritarian hostility and growing fears of loss, the Future Festival asks: What ideas can be used to defend and revitalise our democratic achievements?

• How can we protect democracy without losing our vision of freedom?
• What new forms of democratic participation does the next generation need?
• How do we use artificial intelligence & co. to strengthen democracy?

Together, the participants will explore new paths for the future of democracy based on six key ideas. After two and a half days of intensive teamwork, the participants will present their democracy designs on the big stage of the Helmut Schmidt Future Prize in Hamburg's Thalia Theatre.

This year, democracy activist Marina Weisband will speak at the start of the festival, opening the dialogue with the festival community on the future of democratic participation.

The aim is to explore new ways to fully utilise the democratic potential of an open society. Accommodation and catering will be provided at the festival, the costs will be borne by Leuphana University Lüneburg.

Learn more

Location: Youth Hostel Cologne-Deutz, Siegesstr. 5, 50679 Cologne

We need a strong, resilient democracy. It is becoming increasingly clear that many of the tasks facing us in the future can only be successfully tackled in new stakeholder constellations. New ways of cooperation and democratic negotiation must be found. Politics, administration, civil society and residents share democratic responsibility.

This makes the work in the Citizen Participation Network and its commitment to participation, involvement and the strengthening of a lively, participatory democracy at all political and social levels all the more important.

This year's network meeting on 23 May 2025 in Cologne is therefore entitled

‘Able to act together. A strong democracy needs participation and involvement’.

Among other things, the following questions will be discussed: How can civil society, residents, administration and politics work together to tackle the upcoming social challenges? How must democratic decision-making processes be organised in order to embed the new forms of cooperation? How should participation and involvement develop against the background of the above questions? What tools and procedures do we need for this? This includes the role of citizens' assemblies in strengthening democracy. 

The long-planned renaming of the network to "Network Democracy and Participation ’ will also take place at the network meeting . This special event will be celebrated - and taken as an opportunity to discuss different perspectives on the interplay between participation and democracy.

Location: Youth Hostel Göttingen, Habichtsweg 2, 37075 Göttingen

Populism, political disinformation and social polarisation - many democracies around the world are under pressure. Mistrust in political institutions, parties and the media is also growing in Germany and Europe. Social networks have changed public discourse, while ‘fake news’ and disinformation are making it more difficult to form opinions.

But is democracy really in crisis, as is repeatedly claimed? Or are we experiencing a transformation that brings new opportunities for a vibrant political culture?

After a brief look at the reasons for declining trust in democracy, the participants in this weekend academy will focus on the future and seek answers to the question of how trust in democracy can be regained. Together they will look at various approaches to participation, from citizens' assemblies and direct democracy to new political transparency and civic engagement, and discuss the potential of these for strengthening democratic structures. How can the younger generation succeed in developing a new, strong and positive narrative for democracy and making their own voices heard?

Be there when democracy is rethought!

Seminar team

Mattes Campen studied Political Economy and Spanish in the Master of Education programme in Göttingen and Valencia. Mattes now works as a freelance political educator and gives workshops and seminars on EU political education, media education and youth participation in Hamburg and the surrounding area. In the past, he has also organised teacher training courses on European political education. He has been active as a seminar leader at v.f.h. since 2024 and aims to make politics tangible for participants and encourage democratic participation.

Larissa Selbach studied politics, sociology and English literature. She is currently doing her Master's in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Marburg. Larissa has been a seminar leader for various formats at V.f.h. since 2019, including project days at schools as well as seminars on globalisation and European politics. Her aim is to make politics exciting and motivate people to participate in society and politics.

Organisational details

This Weekend Academy of Politics is aimed at students, young professionals and politically active people aged 18 and over. Participation in the entire programme and overnight accommodation at the conference venue are compulsory. The seminar fee includes accommodation in a shared room and meals. Travelling expenses are to be paid by the participants themselves. The seminar fee will be paid in cash at the seminar.

An event organised by the Association for the Promotion of Political Action (v.f.h.)

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Location: Seminarraum trojapartner, Elisabethstr. 2, 26135 Oldenburg

Do you want a democratic culture based on togetherness and cooperation? Are you interested in how to organise respectful encounters? And how you can utilise diversity in a group as a valuable resource for cooperation?

In the ‘Hosting Democracy’ training course, you will learn about the possibilities offered by the Art of Hosting approach, the ‘art of opening up spaces for good dialogue’. You will experience what a difference it makes HOW we meet each other. As a starting point for the training, all participants will begin by exploring their personal experience of our democratic culture on a mental, emotional and physical level.

The programme is aimed at anyone who:

• want to learn how to promote a culture of togetherness in a group
• actively work in institutions, groups and companies to promote togetherness in our democracy
• want to get to know and try out new ideas and tools for working with groups
• want to launch a new initiative
• want to exchange ideas and network with like-minded people

Participants will work with a wide range of approaches:

Group and individual work, circle discussions, practical experimentation, embodiment, meditation

Contents

Approaches to democratic culture

The exploration of personal experience on a mental, emotional and physical level is the starting point of the training.

Methods and attitude of the Art of Hosting

Working together in a trusting and group-supported framework integrates individual perspectives and the wisdom of the group.

Culture of listening

Present listening makes it possible to fully engage with another person and to perceive the other person in their lifeworld.

Mindfulness and self-regulation

Recognising emotions that arise in yourself and others during conversations and using targeted exercises to find your own centre and return to the content of the conversation.

Guiding and trying things out

Deepen and apply the learning content with the ‘Speaking & Listening’ dialogue format.

After the training:

• you will be able to apply key elements from the Art of Hosting
• you will have found an inner attitude that strengthens you & respectful cooperation
• you will be able to apply methods that promote a democratic culture
• you will have learnt how to conduct conversations in such a way that you leave with more energy than when you entered.
• you will have gained the motivation, courage and confidence to put what you have learnt into practice

The training is given by Corinna Wermke and Julia Dinslage. For many years, the two have been linked by the Art of Hosting, the ‘art of opening up spaces for meaningful conversations’. In this programme, they combine the joy and depth of these meeting spaces with their commitment to a vibrant democracy in diversity.

Participation fee

As people have different financial circumstances, a sliding scale is offered:

• 350€ solidarity discount: for people with currently limited financial resources
• 450€ normal contribution: for people who are currently financially well off
• 550€ solidarity contribution: for people who earn well and can contribute to the total cost of the seminar or whose contribution is covered by their employer.

If the price is an obstacle despite the sliding scale, please contact the organisers directly. They will then look together to see what options are available.

The price includes a documentation of the training including the methods as well as information on further training options. Coffee, tea, water and refreshments for the short breaks will be provided.

A certificate of attendance will be issued on request.

Registration at mail@resonanzerleben.de or phone +49 176 23102170.

Learn more

Location: Zoom video conferencing platform,

The Innovation Market of the Knowledge Network on Climate Assemblies (KNOCA) is a space for discovery and connection. It’s where we explore the cutting edge of deliberative democratic practice - whether it's new ways to support learning and deliberation inside assemblies, fresh models for recruitment or recommendation writing, or bold proposals for integrating assemblies into wider democratic systems.

The KNOCA Innovation Market brings together members of the KNOCA community - officials, practitioners, researchers, and activists - for a lively exchange of new ideas and experimental approaches that could shape the future of climate assemblies. It’s a space for inspiration and challenge, where the KNOCA network learns from one another and pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.

KNOCA is currently putting together the programme for this year's Innovation Market. More information will follow.

If you’d like to get a feel for what an Innovation Market is like, you can watch the recording of the last edition here.

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Location: Online,

The methods for citizen participation are important communication tools that are used for the preparation, implementation and follow-up of participation processes. There is a broad set of methods that can be used depending on the objective, participation and escalation level.

In addition to step-by-step participation planning and an analysis of which methods are suitable for which projects, the aim of the workshop is to provide an insight into selected formats such as future conferences, citizens‘ workshops, neighbourhood discussions, citizens’ assemblies, etc. and to demonstrate various options for recruiting participants.

Participation is free of charge. It is reserved for members of the Saxony Citizen Participation Experience and Consultancy Network (EBBS).

Location: Widok Towers, Al. Jerozolimskie 44, 00-024,Warsaw, Poland

In recent years, Poland has faced democratic challenges, prompting renewed interest in citizen engagement and deliberative democracy. Civil society organizations, some of which have been active for over a decade, have played a key role in fostering a culture of participation. As a result, Poland has become one of the most active countries in Central and Eastern Europe when it comes to organizing citizens’ assemblies.

The Spring School on Climate Citizens’ Assemblies offers a unique opportunity to gain practical skills in designing and running citizens’ assemblies. In collaboration with experienced local organizations - the Shipyard Foundation, Field of Dialogue Foundation - and the City of Warsaw, the school provides hands-on training, case-based learning, and interactive group work.

A special one-day Deep Dive on Involving Children and Youth in Citizens’ Assemblies will provide additional insights into making deliberative processes more inclusive and representative.

Learn more

Background: Climate action through citizens' assemblies?

Location: Zoom video conferencing platform,

Citizens' assemblies should be a reflection of the population. Participants are therefore randomly selected from the population registers of the towns and municipalities. However, it is not actually that easy to get all those selected to take part.

Usually, around 5 - 10 per cent of those invited to a mini-public respond. However, it is very important to organisations such as ‘Es geht LOS’ that people who belong to the 90 - 95 percent of the population who do not respond also take part in a citizens' assembly.

This is why the so-called outreach random selection method is increasingly being used. In concrete terms, this means that the people who have not responded are personally contacted again through home visits.

Because there are always certain groups that are difficult to reach via written invitations and are usually not sufficiently heard in public debates, in some places Citizens' Assembly members are also invited via multipliers. This was the approach taken at three democracy conventions in Frankfurt/Main, for example, as well as at the current Citizens' Assembly ’Mobile in a neighbourhood worth living in’ in Cologne.

At the online meeting of the Citizens‘ Assembly Network on 4 June, people who have recruited members for mini-publics in this way will report on their experiences.

Panel

• Arno Jesse, Mayor of Brandis
• Katharina Liesenberg, Mehr als Wählen
• Paul Naudascher, Es geht LOS
• Boris Sieverts, Cologne Volunteer Agency
• Jennifer Suckow, German-Turkish Association Cologne

The event will be recorded and the recording will be made available to network members afterwards.

Please register at info@buergerrat.de

Learn more: Citizens' Assembly Network

Location: Berlin, (Venue to follow)

In this three-day seminar, you will learn how to successfully apply Dynamic Facilitation, a unique facilitation method, in various contexts. This ranges from the corporate sector to citizen participation, in particular the Citizens' Assembly and the Wisdom Council Process. But you will also celebrate breakthroughs in individual 1:1 coaching with Dynamic Facilitation.

Dynamic Facilitation is particularly suitable in situations where complex problems need to be solved or creative solutions developed. Here are some examples:

1. Citizen participation and citizens' assemblies: Dynamic Facilitation enables citizens to actively participate in solution-finding processes. It encourages open dialogue and supports the development of solutions to societal challenges.
2. Innovation processes: In companies, Dynamic Facilitation can be used to generate innovative ideas and tackle complex problems in product development or strategic planning.
3. Conflict resolution: The method is also suitable for conflict resolution and mediation. It enables conflicting parties to express their concerns and worries and work together to find solutions.
4. Team development: Dynamic Facilitation can be used in team development processes to strengthen cooperation and promote the creativity of team members.
5. Individual coaching: In coaching, the method can be used to support individuals in solving personal challenges and activating their own creative resources.

In general, Dynamic Facilitation is always suitable when diverse perspectives and ideas need to be brought together in order to tackle complex problems and find jointly supported solutions.

The seminar offers the opportunity to learn from experienced trainers and to exchange ideas with other participants. Discover the potential of dynamic facilitation.

Learn more

Location: Veteran's Memorial Building, Iskan Room, 4117 Overland Avenue Culver City, CA 90230, USA

Curious about what participating in a civic assembly actually feels like? Want to explore a new way to bring people together across differences to tackle real issues? Join Public Democracy LA and Braver Angels for a hands-on model civic assembly, a unique opportunity to experience this democratic approach in action. 

Participants will be considering what policies should guide rebuilding in fire-impacted LA areas. The goal is to gain an understanding of how deliberative techniques practiced by engaged citizens working together, can address local issues. During the three-hour program participants will:

•  Join small-group conversations on real challenges
• Practice collaborative problem-solving
•  Discover civic assemblies - spaces for public dialogue and collective insight

Whether you're part of a community organization, work in local government, or simply want to contribute to civic life in Los Angeles, this event is for you.

Space is limited, so please only sign up if you’re sure you can attend. If your plans change, let the organizers know as soon as possible so they can offer your spot to someone else. Thank you for understanding!

Questions? Contact Alex Levy at aglevy13@gmail.com.

Location: Bounce Innovation Hub, 526 S Main St, Akron, OH 44311, USA

Akron has always been a city that rises to the occasion—literally and figuratively. Perched at the summit of the Ohio and Erie Canal, its very name comes from the Greek word for “high point,” a nod to both its geography and its enduring spirit of innovation.

From its days as the “Rubber Capital of the World” to its leadership today as a hub for entrepreneurship, sustainable polymers, and, healthcare, Akron has never shied away from reinventing itself.

Today, Akron’s energy is focused on building a more participatory future. That’s why FIDE North America and Unify America are organizing their upcoming Citizens’ Assembly School at this place.

Learn more

Location: Online,

How can museums across the world democratise their management and activities to remain relevant in the face of contemporary democratic challenges?

One promising approach is the application of deliberative democracy practices, such as citizens' assemblies, which have recently been implemented in memory institutions in Germany and the United Kingdom. But what are the opportunities and challenges associated with these methods, and how suitable are they for memory institutions?

Read about it in a conversation between the EUROPAST member Rasa Bortkevičiūtė and Ieva Česnulaitytė, one of the leading researchers and practitioners of deliberative democracy.

SAVE THE DATE: on 16 June, Ieva will host a EUROPAST workshop titled “Democratising Museums: Deliberative Democracy in Memory Spaces”.

Registration for the event will open shortly.

Location: Pfefferberg-Theater, Schönhauser Allee 176, 10119 Berlin

The discussion about East Germany and the relationship between East and West flares up again and again. Be it on the occasion of anniversaries or after protests. And yet there is no progress in understanding in this debate. It goes round in circles, accusations are followed by counter-accusations: ‘You are dictatorship-socialised!’ - ‘You have made us economically and symbolically small!’

November 2024 marks the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall. Even before then, the AfD could emerge as the strongest party in three state elections. In this situation, the ‘most sought-after social commentator in the country’ (FAS) comes forward in his new book "Unequally united. Why the East remains different‘ with a differentiated intervention. Steffen Mau analyses prominent contributions and contradicts the equalisation thesis that East Germany will become like the West over time. Due to the experiences of the GDR and the years of reunification, the East will remain different - economically, politically, but also in terms of mentality and identity. In view of the weak roots of the parties, Steffen Mau is in favour of trying out alternative forms of democracy and involving people more, for example through citizens' assemblies.

Steffen Mau, born in 1968, is Professor of Macrosociology at Humboldt University in Berlin. His book Lütten Klein. Leben in der ostdeutschen Transformationsgesellschaft was number one on the non-fiction bestseller list of ZDF, Zeit and Deutschlandfunk Kultur. In 2021 he received the Leibniz Prize of the German Research Foundation.

An event organised by Literatur LIVE in cooperation with Suhrkamp Verlag and Thalia Buchhandlung.

Background: A laboratory for citizen participation

Location: Online,

If there is a conflict in a municipality, it is as challenging as it is crucial to choose the right event format for upcoming dialogue or participation processes. To do this, however, you need to know what stage the conflict is at, who plays what role and how it can possibly be de-escalated.

In the workshop, participants will first look at the theory of conflict stages and, on this basis, learn which dialogue and participation formats are appropriate in which situation and which mistakes should be avoided. Using concrete practical examples, they will discuss options for action, methods and basic attitudes of communication and moderation that have had a de-escalating effect in acute cases of communal crises in the past.

At the end of the workshop, you will have the tools to recognise, classify, deal with and, where possible, resolve conflicts. You will be able to confidently select and implement or assign the appropriate participatory methods, formats and offers for the respective type of conflict.

Participation is free of charge. It is reserved for members of the Saxony Citizen Participation Experience and Consultancy Network (EBBS).

Location: University of Zurich, Affolternstr. 56, Room AFL F 118, CH-8050 Zurich, Switzerland

In 2025, the “Swiss Summer School in Democracy Studies” and the “Deliberative Democracy Summer School” series join forces to create a premier event for PhD students committed to exploring the depths of deliberative democracy in theory and practice. The 2025 Summer School promises rich insight into deliberation, encompassing a broad array of subfields, including democratic theory, public opinion, political communication, political psychology and more.

Our 2025 Summer School places special emphasis on the interplay between inequality and deliberation, examining not only how inequalities affect deliberation but also how deliberative and participatory tools can be harnessed to address existing disparities.

This broad topic encompasses, in particular but not exclusively, the following themes:

• Inequalities in deliberation. Focusing on the dynamics of participation and influence within deliberative forums will help answering questions such as: who gets to speak, who is heard, who persuades?
• Inequalities in perception and support of deliberation and participatory processes. Inequalities also exist in the perception of, the support for, as well as the participation in deliberative events. How do socio-economic, political and cultural factors influence how citizens think of these processes and want to get involved (or not)?
• Deliberation as a means to address existing inequalities. Existing democratic institutions are known to suffer representation deficits and unequal accessibility. How can deliberative processes contribute to the emancipation or mobilisation of underrepresented groups? Can deliberative forums function as tools of contestation? What impact can they have on policy and the wider political system?
• Inequality and differences in theory and practice of deliberation. Deliberative democracy has emerged in a Western context, but is increasingly challenged to integrate perspectives from diverse cultural and regional contexts. How can and should we address geographical inequalities in the theory and practice of deliberation?

The 2025 Summer School will feature lectures and interactive sessions led by renowned scholars in the field of deliberative democracy. Participants will have the opportunity to:

• Engage with leading scholars in the field of deliberative democracy.
• Collaborate with peers: Network with fellow PhD students from around the world, fostering academic collaborations and intellectual exchanges.
• Present and receive feedback on research: Share your research with peers and mentors, receiving constructive feedback to enhance your work.

Students without institutional funding can request a waiver for the participation fees after their acceptance into the summer school. Waivers are granted on a need basis (not competitive).

A cooperation event of the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance of the University of Canberra with the Swiss Summer School in Democracy Studies and the Mercator Foundation Switzerland.

Learn more

Location: Seminarraum BiP, Am Grün 16, 35037 Marburg

Do you want a democratic culture based on togetherness and cooperation? Are you interested in how to organise respectful encounters? And how you can utilise diversity in a group as a valuable resource for cooperation?

In the ‘Hosting Democracy’ training course, you will learn about the possibilities offered by the Art of Hosting approach, the ‘art of opening up spaces for good dialogue’. You will experience what a difference it makes HOW we meet each other. As a starting point for the training, all participants will begin by exploring their personal experience of our democratic culture on a mental, emotional and physical level.

The programme is aimed at anyone who:

• want to learn how to promote a culture of togetherness in a group
• actively work in institutions, groups and companies to promote togetherness in our democracy
• want to get to know and try out new ideas and tools for working with groups
• want to launch a new initiative
• want to exchange ideas and network with like-minded people

Participants will work with a wide range of approaches:

Group and individual work, circle discussions, practical experimentation, embodiment, meditation

Contents

Approaches to democratic culture

The exploration of personal experience on a mental, emotional and physical level is the starting point of the training.

Methods and attitude of the Art of Hosting

Working together in a trusting and group-supported framework integrates individual perspectives and the wisdom of the group.

Culture of listening

Present listening makes it possible to fully engage with another person and to perceive the other person in their lifeworld.

Mindfulness and self-regulation

Recognising emotions that arise in yourself and others during conversations and using targeted exercises to find your own centre and return to the content of the conversation.

Guiding and trying things out

Deepen and apply the learning content with the ‘Speaking & Listening’ dialogue format.

After the training:

• you will be able to apply key elements from the Art of Hosting
• you will have found an inner attitude that strengthens you & respectful cooperation
• you will be able to apply methods that promote a democratic culture
• you will have learnt how to conduct conversations in such a way that you leave with more energy than when you entered.
• you will have gained the motivation, courage and confidence to put what you have learnt into practice

The training is given by Corinna Wermke and Julia Dinslage. For many years, the two have been linked by the Art of Hosting, the ‘art of opening up spaces for meaningful conversations’. In this programme, they combine the joy and depth of these meeting spaces with their commitment to a vibrant democracy in diversity.

Participation fee: 350 - 550 euros (staggered prices)

Participation fee

As people have different financial circumstances, a sliding scale is offered:

• 350€ solidarity discount: for people with currently limited financial resources
• 450€ normal contribution: for people who are currently financially well off
• 550€ solidarity contribution: for people who earn well and can contribute to the total cost of the seminar or whose contribution is covered by their employer.

If the price is an obstacle despite the sliding scale, please contact the organisers directly. They will then look together to see what options are available.

The price includes a documentation of the training including the methods as well as information on further training options. Coffee, tea, water and refreshments for the short breaks will be provided.

A certificate of attendance will be issued on request.

Registration at mail@resonanzerleben.de or phone +49 176 23102170.

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Location: Heidelberg School of Education, Old Building, Lecture Hall 222, Keplerstr. 87, 69120 Heidelberg

How can democracy be deepened in society, schools and lessons in order to counter the population's increasing scepticism towards the ability to make political judgements and take action? What opportunities arise from this, what challenges and risks need to be considered? These questions will be the focus of the three-part lecture series ‘Mehr Demokratie wagen?!’ in July.

In an interdisciplinary dialogue with students, university lecturers and the interested specialist public, Heidelberg School of Education would like to explore how democratic participation can be promoted in a time of political upheaval and social uncertainty and how civic education can be made fit for the future.

Prof Dr Hans Vorländer from the Technical University of Dresden will kick things off with a contribution on the topic of ‘Democracy under pressure’. The expert on the constitution, democracy and populism will not only shed light on and categorise current developments, but also outline potential future scenarios and point out possible courses of action.

Registration is not required.

The lecture can also be followed via the Zoom video conferencing platform. Information on participation via Zoom will follow in good time before the start of the event on the event series website.

Location: Villa Fabris, Via Trieste 43, 36016 Thiene (VI), Italy

The ALDA International School at Villa Fabris is an immersive, high-level training programme bringing together changemakers, policymakers, researchers and practitioners from across Europe and beyond. Over three days, participants engage in a unique learning experience focused on local democracy, digital transformation and democratic resilience in an era of global challenges.

After the great success of the 2024 Summer School, ALDA has decided to expand and elevate the initiative into the ALDA International School—a more ambitious, long-term project that will invest in deeper learning, broader international participation, and lasting impact. Building on the strong foundation of last year’s edition, we are enhancing the programme with new thematic tracks, innovative methodologies and stronger global partnerships, making it a key reference point for local democracy worldwide.

The three-day International School Programme at Villa Fabris  focuses on strengthening local democracy in the face of challenges like populism, polarisation, and digital transformation.

The programme offers a balance of theory and practical application, providing participants with the knowledge, tools, and strategies to enhance democratic institutions at the local level. Through expert-led sessions, interactive lectures, and role-playing exercises, participants will explore key issues like democratic resilience, the role of digital tools in governance, and how to foster transparency and citizen engagement.

ALDA is a key stakeholder in the field of local democracy, active citizenship, and cooperation between local authorities and civil society in Europe, its Neighbourhood, and all around the World, mainly acting through participative methods and decentralised cooperation.

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Location: Forum Demokratie Düsseldorf, Himmelgeister Str. 107, 40225 Düsseldorf

Unique situations such as crises, complex problems or seemingly unsolvable conflicts require unique facilitation.

This seminar teaches the basic principles of Dynamic Facilitation (DF). Alternating between theory and practice, the necessary basic skills for successful moderation with Dynamic Facilitation, for example in citizens' assemblies, will be developed. The seminar will enable you to apply the method and understand how you can lead a group to a breakthrough.

Dynamic Facilitation (DF) - the method for the unsolvable

The aim of Dynamic Facilitation is to jointly find room for manoeuvre for tricky, emotionally charged problems, crises and conflicts. Dynamic Facilitation can be used to initiate real transformation. The solutions are not based on elaborate compromises or decisions, but emerge as if by themselves in a collective, non-judgemental, creative process. Dynamic Facilitation follows the energy of the group, not a predetermined structure or goal. It is therefore very different to traditional facilitation methods or phase-orientated approaches in mediation.

Speaker:

Markus Götsch, MA, DFA certified Dynamic Facilitation Instructor, mediator, organisational developer & filmmaker

Recognised as further training within the meaning of the German Mediation Act with 19 hours.

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Location: Erwin-Piscator-Haus Marburg, Biegenstr. 15, 35037 Marburg

Our democracy is facing major challenges: Democratic institutions are coming under pressure, the willingness to engage in dialogue is dwindling and vested interests are becoming louder. Citizen participation can be a key to counteracting this - but how do we really reach people? How do we create spaces for constructive dialogue, including between groups with different perspectives? And which established and new procedures can help to strengthen trust in democratic processes?

Best practice, challenges & new approaches

These questions are the focus of this year's conference on citizen participation, which will take place in Marburg on 23 September 2025. Under the title ‘More participation, more democracy? Dialogue on new ways of participation’, wer denkt was is inviting experts from administration, science, politics and civil society. Together, the participants discuss best practices, challenges and new ways of citizen participation. One focus will be on sortition-based processes and outreach approaches that specifically involve people who have not been listened to so far.

Lectures - discussion rounds - market of opportunities

In addition to inspiring specialist presentations, discussion rounds will provide space for the exchange of practical solutions: from bottom-up processes to the municipal implementation of new participation formats. A market of opportunities will provide an insight into current research projects, innovative initiatives and a wide range of offers.

Among others will be:

• Dr Thomas Spies, Lord Mayor of the University City of Marburg
• Dr Griet Newiger-Addy, Head of the Citizen Participation Unit of the University City of Marburg
• Linus Strothmann, random participant & author of ‘We'll pick you up!’
• Eva Heising, ipse e.V.
• Sven Reisch, Head of the Office for Culture of the City of Böblingen
• Research network ‘Success factors for local e-participation’
• Hesse Centre for Sustainable Mobility Planning (HTAI )

Join the conference, think ahead together and discuss the future of democratic participation!

Participation fee: 159 € 

Contact: fachkonferenz@werdenktwas.de, Tel. 06151 62915-95

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Location: Athens, Greece, (Venue to follow)

If 2024 taught us anything, it was to expect the unexpected. The “year of elections” had decidedly mixed results for democracy, with liberal-minded parties or leaders making important gains in some countries, and self-styled autocrats sweeping to power in others. Despite the disparate outcomes, the people themselves expressed two common themes: disaffection and a hunger for change.

The 2025 edition of the Athens Democracy Forum will be about taking stock of these forces and deciding how to harness their power. The participants will analyze the undeniable realities that must be reckoned with - social upheaval, economic insecurity, concurrent wars, the onslaught of tech advancements, the chaos of the climate crisis - as well as the political opportunists who might take advantage of them. You will also look at the arc of history: Is this moment really as different - and as dangerous - as some think?

But more than anything, the participants will look forward to the binding forces of hope. The Forum will showcase examples of democratic renewal from around the world: the movement to tap into the power of citizens to shape policy decisions; technology that takes the temperature of what people want to make governments more responsive; parliaments that draw on the wisdom of youth for fresh ideas and perspectives; and programs that encourage people to extend an olive branch, or even a hand.

Finally, to become forces to be reckoned with, we also need a vision to get us there. This is why the Athens Democracy Forum will be adding a fourth pillar to the thematic trifecta of recent years. In addition to sessions on “rethinking” key issues, regional case studies, and practical and innovative new tools, the Forum will also be dreaming about entirely new ways of structuring (or not) society, governments and institutions.

This year again, the Forum will be home for the City of Athens Democracy Award and the Kofi Annan NextGen Democracy Prize. Teens for Democracy will also return, showcasing the vital voices of young leaders. Stay tuned - registration will open in March 2025!

Location: Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain, (Venue to follow)

From October 7-9, 2025, the Government of Spain will host the 2025 Open Government Partnership (OGP) Global Summit in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain. The Summit will bring together more than 2,000 high-level representatives of governments, civil society leaders, and policy-makers from around the world to exchange experiences, best practices, and progress on open government initiatives and implementation on key issues. 

At the 2025 OGP Global Summit, the most promising and impactful reforms submitted to the Open Gov Challenge through the Open Gov Awards will be recognized, celebrating innovation and progress in open government.

Selecting Vitoria-Gasteiz, the capital city of Euskadi (a member of OGP Local along with five other Autonomous Communities and one municipality in the country) as the host city is a testament to Spain’s commitment to mainstreaming open government at all levels of government. 

This will be the ninth OGP Global Summit. Previous OGP Global Summits have been held in Canada, Georgia, Estonia, France, Korea, Mexico, United Kingdom, and Brazil.

Submit your ideas for the OGP Global Summit 2025 now!

Sign up for OGP’s monthly newsletter to receive updates about the Summit and other upcoming events, new publications, stories, and relevant open government news.

Location: Narrativum, Färberg. 1, A 6900 Bregenz, Austria

In this three-day seminar, participants will take an in-depth look at the unique facilitation method Dynamic Facilitation and learn how to apply it successfully in various contexts - from the corporate sector (Creative Insight Council) to the broad field of citizen participation (Citizens‘ Assembly / Citizens’ Forum, Wisdom Council Process) and 1:1 coaching.

The application of Dynamic Facilitation in Citizens‘ Assemblies (also known as Citizens’ Forums, Wisdom Councils...) is particularly exciting. This special form of citizen participation was first trialled in Vorarlberg and has now been an integral part of political reality for 10 years.

Dynamic facilitation gives participants the opportunity to freely express their concerns, needs and wishes, but above all their ideas, and to enter into a creative solution-finding process with others. This creates a deep bond between the participants and a high level of identification with the problem. This leads to a strong sense of unity, the basis for the ability to change and take action.

In this seminar, the participants will therefore also deal intensively with the application of dynamic facilitation in citizens' assemblies and learn the special attitude and skills of facilitation that are necessary for successful implementation.

The seminar offers you the opportunity to learn from experienced trainers and to exchange ideas with other participants.

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Location: Maison du Bois, Avenue des Volontaires 2, 1040 Brussels, Belgium

In 2025, the annual conference of Democracy R&D will take place in Brussels, Belgium. The annual meeting of the global citizens' assembly network is organised by G1000, FIDE - Europe, Democratic Society and Missions Publiques.

The 2025 Theme: "Crossroads"

As the “deliberative wave” moves at different paces across the world, Democracy R&D faces both exciting opportunities and significant challenges- polarization, autocratization, and the rise of populism. This year’s theme invites everyone to reflect on the pathways that public deliberation can take to rise to this moment.

Beyond the Mainstage: October 14 and 17

Democracy R&D is preparing activities to help the community reach beyond its members. Open events to engage with local and European stakeholders. There will be opportunities for advocacy, capacity-building and more!

About Democracy R&D

With 108 member organisations and 100 individual members in 57 countries and on six continents, Democracy R&D is the largest global network dedicated to deliberative democracy and democratic renewal.

Democracy R&D empowers citizens to make informed judgements and decisions in cooperation with governments. This is achieved through democratic processes such as random selection (sortition) and deliberation.

Democracy R&D members help governments from the local to the global level to build trust, understanding and solutions to some of the most difficult problems. They bring ordinary people back into the policy-making process.

Contact

For questions about the conference, please contact Miguel González Vaz (FIDE), email: miguel.gonzalez@fide.eu

Learn more:  Democracy R&D 2025

Location: Diakonie Hasenbergl, Stanigplatz 10, 80933 Munich

Dynamic Facilitation (DF), an extraordinary method that awakens and utilises potential!

DF is a facilitation method and attitude,

• enables appreciative communication in discussions
• creates a connection between people and content
• which energises teams and creates space for creativity and innovation
• creates the energy to resolve conflicts constructively and
• which enables you to ‘take along’ and involve your employees in change processes.

In this 3-day Dynamic Facilitation foundation seminar, you will learn the basic tools of the method. You will understand the mechanisms of action and practise their future application, e.g. in citizens' assemblies.

The participants work with topics and ‘challenges’ from their everyday lives and develop possibilities together.

A seminar organised by the ‘Dynamic Facilitation’ association in cooperation with Diakonie Hasenbergl.

Location: Lean-in | mindful leadership Hamburg, Birrenkovenallee 13, 22143 Hamburg

Moinmoin to the three-day basic seminar in Dynamic Facilitation in Hamburg! This seminar offers you the opportunity to familiarise yourself with the basics of this revolutionary method of group facilitation and to learn how to apply it in your own professional and personal contexts.

During the seminar you will learn how to create an open and appreciative atmosphere in groups that allows participants to express their individual perspectives and ideas while developing creative and transformative solutions together. You will learn how to develop the ability to facilitate a group while responding individually to the needs of the participants.

The seminar is aimed at anyone who wants to be able to work more effectively with groups, whether in business, education or community work. No previous facilitation experience is required.

You will be able to explore this unique facilitation method in depth and learn how Dynamic Facilitation can be used successfully in a variety of contexts - from the corporate sector (Creative Insight Council), to the broad field of citizen participation (Citizens‘ Assembly according to the Vorarlberg Model / Citizens’ Forum, Wisdom Council Process) and 1:1 coaching.

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Location: Evangelische Akademie Loccum, Münchehäger Str. 6, 31547 Rehburg-Loccum

In times of complex crises, our democracy is facing major challenges. With its interactive sessions, the Procedere workshop conference offers a platform for practitioners of procedural design and democratic development to exchange ideas on how the institutions and procedures of the democratic system can be further developed. The focus will be on new forms of participation such as citizens' assemblies, constitutional reforms and opportunities for direct democracy.

More information will follow.

An event organised by the Evangelische Akademie Loccum (Protestant Academy Loccum).