Page 127 - Enabling National Initiatives to Take Democracy Beyond Elections

Ultimately, the goal here is to provide a comprehensive starting point for participants. Answering as many questions as possible and providing as much of a baseline set of information as possible. Having a document from ‘government’ with a clear indication that that is the source can allow participants to get a piece of information where they are sure of the possible biases or blind spots within it. Information kits for citizens’ jury-style deliberations should aim for 50– 200-page documents that explain as much of the problem as possible. The more information that you can provide at the outset, the more time you save with initial questioning in the room. Information provides the baselines knowledge for informed and considered discussion. 2 Submissions from stakeholders will provide a complementary set of information to round out perspectives on the topic. Stakeholders are often invited to submit their perspectives on the different concerns through the convening of stakeholder information sessions and public submission processes. Government should help identify key industry and community stakeholders and seek their contribution in the room. Importantly, these stakeholders should represent many different perspectives on the topics. They’re invited to speak to the participants on the first day – providing an example of the diversity of views. Stakeholders can provide information in a number of different mediums: a. Written b. Record a video c. Invite to speak d. Contribute to a list of other potential sources 125