The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is supported by the European Union and the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) through Mondo’s NoPlanetB project. It is co-financed by the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Office in Estonia and the DD Democracy Centre. The content is the sole responsibility of the DD Democracy Centre and Praxis and can under no circumstances be regarded as representing the views of the European Union or ESTDEV.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD LIFE?
A good life does not happen by itself — it is created together, as a community. The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is a nationwide event that will bring together people from all walks of life in September and October to reflect on how we can steer our society towards the well-being of both people and nature.
The citizens’ panel helps strengthen the shared will for sustainable change by bringing the voices of everyday residents into decision-making. It is built on the foundation of the best available knowledge, thorough discussions, and reaching consensus — in this way setting an example for other decision-making processes.
The aim of the Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is to amplify the impact of various initiatives that foster debate on alternative economic models and help guide policymaking. This year, several initiatives are taking place to shape our shared future: through the Hakkab looma! visioning gatherings, people can share their dreams for the future until mid-August; in October, the Degrowth Estonia and Biotoopia conferences will discuss “Life in Post-Growth Estonia”; and in November, the Rohetiiger movement will unveil its balanced economy concept for Estonia.
Reflecting on
the Good Life
The citizens’ panel brings together a representative sample of Estonia's population (a "mini-Estonia") of 30 people to discuss what constitutes a good life and whether our current policies support it.
A new approach to decisionmaking
We are testing a small-scale citizens' assembly (citizen panel) as a model that can help our society to address complex issues, overcome disagreements, and foster greater unity.
Settings changes in motion
We believe that meaningful change begins with the readiness of citizens and the courage of decision-makers. As a result of the citizens’ panel policymakers gain the confidence to prioritize the well-being of people and nature - and not solely economic growth.
How does it work?
The citizens’ assembly is made up of 30 diverse individuals from across Estonia who reflect the richness of our population. They represent real lives and real concerns — and a shared desire to shape a better future.
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life consists of 30 people from across Estonia who represent the country’s population. It is intended for all residents of Estonia. The final list of participants is determined through a representative random selection.
On five weekend days in September and October.
We will articulate a collective understanding of what is needed for a good life and identify key initiatives in Estonia that can better align societal development with the wellbeing of people and nature.
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life consists of 30 people from across Estonia who represent the country’s population. It is intended for all residents of Estonia. The final list of participants is determined through a representative random selection.
August 30 in Pärnu (Saturday), September 13–14 in Klooga (Saturday–Sunday), September 27–28 in Kadrina (Saturday–Sunday).
We will articulate a collective understanding of what is needed for a good life and identify key initiatives in Estonia that can better align societal development with the wellbeing of people and nature.
INTERESTED IN TAKING PART?
MEMBER OF THE PANEL
Register your interest to be considered for participation in the citizens’ panel. Those selected through the random lottery will receive an invitation to join the panel in August.
OBSERVER, EXPERT
You can also take part in the citizens’ panel as an observer, stakeholder, or expert — read more about these additional opportunities.
MIks see oluline on?
ÜHISMEELE SUUNAS: mini-Eesti annab kollektiivse hinnangu, kuidas praegused valdkonnapoliitikad toetavad inimeste ja looduse heaolu. Loodav konsensus sünnib heade arutelude käigus ühisosast, mitte erimeelsustest.
ÜHISKONDLIK ARUTELU: rahvakogus osalejad saavad hulga teadmisi hea elu komponentidest, piisavusest, üleilmsetest trendidest ja teistes riikides kasutusel olevatest alternatiivsetest majandusmudelitest. Uute teadmiste valguses lastakse lahti vanadest veendumustest, mis meid ühiskonnana enam ei kanna. Käivitub laiem ühiskondlik arutelu inimeste ja looduse heaolu teemal.
AVALIKULE SEKTORILE UUS OSALUSMUDEL: rahvakogu disain loob näidise, kuidas avalik sektor saab tulevikus keerulisi ja pikaajalisi teemasid koos elanikega arutada ja otsustada.
Previous Citizens’ Assemblies in Estonia
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is the sixth citizens’ assembly held in Estonia — and the second at the national level.
ORGANIZERS
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is organised by the DD Democracy Centre and the Praxis think tank. These civil society organisations are also where the development work on citizens’ assemblies takes place.
The panel is commissioned by the Estonian Cooperation Assembly, which manages the People’s Initiative website, and the Network of Estonian Nonprofit Organisations (NENO), the voice of public-interest NGOs. These same organisations have also been involved in organising previous citizens’ assemblies.
You can find more information about the organisers HERE.
FUNDING
MENU:
CONTACT:
Email: rahvakogud@praxis.ee
Address: Mõttekoda Praxis, Ahtri 6a, Tallinn
