Getting Real About Citizens’ Assemblies: A New Theory of Change for Citizens’ Assemblies

There is an urgent requirement to explore how citizens' assemblies can effectively navigate the intricate realm of politics to bring about substantial change. While governments are in pursuit of profound transformation, citizens' assemblies are portrayed as a pivotal solution within the framework of deliberative democracy. These assemblies contribute consensual policies, foster citizen mobilization, and promote intergroup solidarity. Despite these merits, their influence on policy changes has shown variability. To address this issue, the article suggests a novel theory of change, encompassing diverse strategies, active citizen participation, and an expansion of the assembly's sphere of influence.