Tend It Like A Garden: A Podcast on the Irish Citizens' Assembly

Critics of the Citizens' Assembly model raise concerns about accountability and the random sampling method affecting representation. Participants share their emotional challenges and skepticism about political will. The push to lower the voting age showcases youth engagement and optimism for change. Discussions highlight the potential for replicating the Assembly's success internationally, particularly in divided contexts like the U.S. Lessons from the Assembly underscore the nurturing needed for effective deliberative democracy.

Explore the fascinating origins of deliberative democracy in Ireland and the rise of the Citizens' Assembly as a response to public outrage. Hear how it shaped landmark policies like marriage equality and abortion rights while emphasizing representative diversity. Discover the assembly's role in fostering empathy and transforming political discourse around contentious issues. Plus, learn about its impact on climate awareness, empowering citizens in advocacy efforts and opening discussions on its future challenges.

Dive into the fascinating world of Citizens' Assemblies and their potential to reshape decision-making. The discussion highlights the rising threat of populism and the challenges liberal democracies face today. Discover how the innovative Irish Citizens' Assembly is encouraging active citizen engagement in policymaking. The conversation also tackles skepticism around the effectiveness of these assemblies, illustrated with personal anecdotes that bring the topic to life.