What if democracy looked and felt different? Join host Michael Boyle in this insightful discussion with European Peoples‘ Assembly attendees, also known as the Democratic Odyssey. This groundbreaking initiative brings together everyday individuals from across Europe – citizens and non-citizens alike – to deliberate on pressing issues and shape the future of democratic participation.
Hear firsthand from Maria Avramova and Sarah Sea, two randomly selected participants to be part of this unique journey. Discover how Maria was approached on the street in Berlin and how Sarah, unable to vote in Austria post-Brexit, found a powerful avenue for her voice to be heard. They share their personal experiences in the assemblies held in Athens and Florence, highlighting the power of diverse perspectives and the surprising connections forged through shared stories of crisis and resilience.
Niccolò Milanese, Director of European Alternatives, sheds light on the origins and philosophy behind the Democratic Odyssey, born from a desire to innovate democracy and build solidarity in a post-pandemic world. He explains the emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that all voices, regardless of citizenship, are part of the conversation.
Andrea Gaiba, program manager at the European University Institute, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous design and the profound impact of these assemblies. Learn about the „pedagogy of sortition“ – the deliberate random selection of participants – and the powerful moments of human connection that transcend borders and ideologies.
This episode delves into critical questions about citizen engagement, the concept of „time poverty“ as a barrier to participation, and the idea of democracy as a common good that requires collective ownership. Discover how the Democratic Odyssey is actively working to make participation more accessible and meaningful for everyone.
A Call to Action: If you’re in Vienna, don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the final stage of this incredible journey from May 23rd to 25th! Learn how you can get involved and witness this innovative approach to democracy in action.
Tune in to hear inspiring stories and gain a fresh perspective on how we can collectively shape a more inclusive and participatory future for Europe and beyond.