Page 71 - Enabling National Initiatives to Take Democracy Beyond Elections

Answer: You cannot begin a deliberative democracy process without the support of decision makers. It is important to invest the time before commencing to educate and promote the benefits (short and long term) of the deliberative process. Take the time to get senior decision makers on board before you embark on a process like this. It must be given the influence it needs otherwise it will damage your organisational reputation and send the project backwards. Answer: Whilst elected officials cannot control the jury/ panel recommendations, they can control how and when recommendations are implemented. It is important that each recommendation is highly-considered by decision makers and is given time and appreciation. Some recommendations are just not possible to implement (legislation, policy, etc), but this must be clearly and transparently communicated back to the citizens. Often, elected officials will find the participants’ response is very reasonable, rational and considered. Randomly selected groups involved in deliberation approach tasks fundamentally differently than do self selected activist groups – and this new voice is not to be feared. It is also beneficial to have decision makers attend the project as observers to ensure they understand the time, effort and commitment of the participants. This will highlight the struggles participants face weighing up pros and cons, the challenges and considerations they make. Decision makers will see how each idea is developed and explored, and not just thought up out of nowhere. 69 Common Blocker: “We don’t have the mandate from above” Common Blocker: “It is too risky – we can’t control the response”