SC Connecticut News

In 2004, British Columbia, Canada, initiated the first modern citizens' assembly to address issues with its electoral system. These assemblies involve randomly selected citizens who deliberate and recommend policies. Although the assembly's recommendations did not pass into law due to failing a super-majority threshold, such deliberative mini-publics have gained popularity.

Recently, Yale's Institution for Social and Policy Studies (ISPS) co-sponsored a conference marking the 20th anniversary of this democratic innovation. Experts gathered to discuss the evolution and future potential of citizens' assemblies. Antonin Lacelle-Webster from ISPS highlighted that "our current practices face many challenges, presenting risks and opportunities for democracies as we move beyond the last 20 years."

The event was organized by Lacelle-Webster alongside Hélène Landemore, both part of ISPS's Democratic Innovations program. The conference also received support from Yale’s MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies.

Mark Warren from the University of British Columbia described the 2004 assembly as a new type of representative institution comprising citizens representing millions more. Warren noted that people who learned about the assembly were likely to endorse its recommendations due to its inclusive nature.

Simone Chambers from UC Irvine emphasized that proponents should not undermine traditional democracy while advocating for citizens' assemblies. She stated, "We need to emphasize how one can positively influence the other," highlighting that assemblies can educate voters on complex issues.

Spencer McKay from UBC discussed innovations like pairing assemblies with referendums. Lewis Krashinsky from Toronto University presented research indicating partisanship often influences voting outcomes in referendums associated with assemblies.

Peter MacLeod from MASS LBP argued against seeing British Columbia's referendum outcome as a failure due to its high approval rate compared to past Canadian votes. He advocated for patience in evolving democratic processes over time.

The conference explored ongoing efforts in integrating citizens' assemblies within political systems globally. Alan Gerber, ISPS Director, praised these discussions as vital for democracy's adaptation and growth.

The role of citizens' assemblies in tackling issues like climate change was also discussed, focusing on maintaining their legitimacy and innovative potential. Mark Warren further addressed these topics at an APSA meeting emphasizing their importance for democracy's future.

Despite progress, Peter MacLeod acknowledged much work remains: "Right now... remains an absolute novelty to 99% of the world." The commitment continues toward introducing people worldwide to this form of democratic engagement.

Yale College junior Thalsa-Thiziri Mekaouche contributed to this report.