CONTEXT and OBJECTIves
While trust in political institutions declines and democratic backsliding grows worldwide, citizen participation beyond elections remains limited. At the same time, climate change is one of Europe’s most urgent and polarising challenges. In response, innovative participatory tools, such as climate assemblies and other citizens’ initiatives, have emerged at the intersection of climate action and democracy. Citizens for Climate promotes a more democratic and sustainable Europe by sharing and comparing best practices in inclusive climate participation.
Through 17 interactive events across seven EU countries, the project raises awareness of democratic innovations in climate policy and connects citizens, civil society, and policymakers. It engages around 730 participants, including many from marginalised communities, and trains multipliers so participatory practices can spread beyond the climate field. Activities include a transnational Kick-Off and Spring School, local Participation Pop-Ups, and a Review Event to exchange insights. The project concludes with a Climate Participation Conference and local dissemination events presenting the Climate Participation Booklet. Overall, the initiative also aims to reach around 500,000 people online through a broad dissemination campaign.
in numbers
MISSION modalities
As a national partner, we contribute to the project through a series of European and local activities over two years.
- We participate in a transnational Kick-Off and Spring School, where partners exchange knowledge and establish a shared methodology for inclusive climate participation.
- We then organise a Participation Pop-Up in our country, bringing together citizens, civil society organisations, and policymakers to explore local examples of participatory climate democracy and collect case studies.
- These insights are shared at a transnational Review Event, where partners compare experiences and identify common lessons across Europe.
- Based on these findings, we contribute to developing the Climate Participation Booklet, a collection of best practices and recommendations.
- Finally, we host a local dissemination event and support an online European conference and communication campaign to share the results with a wider audience.