Deliberative Democracy and Climate Change - Exploring the Potential of Climate Assemblies in the Global South

This report examines the role of citizens' assemblies and other forms of citizen deliberation in addressing climate change, particularly in the Global South. While scientific evidence underscores the urgent risks of climate change, current national policies are insufficient to meet the required net-zero targets. Climate assemblies, which involve everyday citizens in decision-making processes, are seen as a potential solution to break political deadlocks, enhance climate policy ambitions, and strengthen the legitimacy of difficult policy choices. The report highlights the importance of careful design, political support, and inclusion to ensure the effectiveness of these assemblies. It emphasizes that while they are not a silver bullet, climate assemblies can empower citizens, reduce polarization, and help bridge gaps between different political groups, ultimately contributing to more ambitious and inclusive climate action.

The report also identifies key lessons from the experiences of the Global South, where climate assemblies have been used to democratize decision-making and address climate challenges in diverse political contexts. It outlines several recommendations for improving the impact of climate assemblies, such as ensuring they are embedded in local political contexts, overcoming participation barriers, and designing for long-term impact. The report stresses the importance of learning from both the successes and limitations of climate deliberation in the Global South and suggests that these lessons can help improve climate policy and action worldwide.

On 29 October 2024, International IDEA and the Centre for Deliberative Democracy and Global Governance at the University of Canberra organized a panel to discuss findings of the report, explore challenges and innovations of climate-related deliberative practices and the potential of climate assemblies in Asia and the Pacific. Watch the panel discussion below.