An insightful online peer exchange on citizens’ assemblies in South-East Europe took place on 29 January 2025, as 18 local authorities and 7 NALAS member associations met for the second time as part of the Community of Practice on deliberative democracy.

During this meeting, more than 40 participants exchanged on the benefits of citizens’ assemblies for enhanced citizen participation, through discussion with experts, academics and practitioners from the region and beyond.

In his opening address, Boran Ivanoski, NALAS Programme Director, emphasized the importance of deliberative democracy in NALAS efforts for inclusive local governance.

“Deliberative democracy provides a powerful framework for local governments to foster meaningful connections with citizens, ensuring that no one is left behind, which is also the central promise of the UN 2030 Agenda.  Our Community of Practice serves as a unique platform to explore and enhance these processes“, he said.

As part of the exchange, Mr. Marko Filipović, Mayor of Rijeka and NALAS Vice President highlighted Rijeka Citizens’ Assembly, a unique initiative organised in 2023, and offered valuable insights on the benefits of the process for local governments.

Members of the Community of Practice also heard important presentations on understanding specific elements of citizens’ assemblies by Damir Kapidžić, international expert in deliberative democracy and by Andrea Fabbri from IU Rusconi Ghigi Foundation, who shared practical experiences from the Climate Citizens’ Assembly of Bologna.

These inspiring discussions will inform upcoming activities and support for the members of the Community of Practice.

Community of Practice on Deliberative Democracy was established under the project “Promoting deliberative democracy and innovative approaches to citizen Participation in South-East Europe”, led by the Council of Europe’s Congress of Local and Regional Authorities in partnership with NALAS.