SDI Presents: Innovations in Democracy
Three-part radio series on using digital technology to expand participatory democracy
In September 2020, the Solonian Democracy Institute suggested to Madison, Wisconsin based local radio station WORT the creation of a series on Digital Democracy to showcase the true scale of innovative approaches that are now possible to expand the role of citizens in democratic decision-making.
Produced by our Managing Director, Dr. Roslyn Fuller, the series aired in early October with experts from around the world sharing their insights on what the future of democratic engagement can look like.
Part 1: Participatory Budgeting
Originally practiced in Porto Alegre, Brazil, Participatory Budgeting, which allows people to decide on how part of a public budget is spent, now takes place around the world. Listen to our panel of experts outlining how PB is working in different countries and what the future looks like for Participatory Budgeting.
Panelists:
Part 2: Referenda
From the Swiss model of citizen-initiated referenda to the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom, referenda take many forms around the world and are a key component of direct democracy. Listen to our panel of experts debate how referenda can be used to empower people and deepen citizen participation.
Panelists:
Part 3: Online Deliberation And Voting
While Participatory Budgeting and Referenda are more well-known examples of democratic innovation, Digital Democracy can do so much more: From public sector task automation, to online consultation, deliberation and voting, Part 3 of the series serves as a sampling platter of what is possible today, replete with cutting-edge technology (e.g Blockchain security) and plenty of unexpected facts (e.g. the age profile of online voting). Enjoy!
Panelists:
For more on the status of digital democracy, check out SDI’s 2020 Digital Democracy Report (next edition coming in early 2021) or our website at http://www.solonian-institute.com.
Sincerely,
Solonian
Democracy
Institute