On 26 June 2025, the Community of Practice on Deliberative Democracy held its fourth meeting, bringing together representatives from 18 local governments and 7 local government associations across South-East Europe. This online session served as both a platform for peer learning and inspiration on democratic innovation and as a reflective milestone.

The central focus of the meeting was the follow-up and institutionalisation of citizens’ assemblies, with particular emphasis on designing effective follow-up mechanisms to enhance the legitimacy, continuity, and long-term impact of deliberative processes.

In her opening remarks, Jelena Janevska, Programme Director at NALAS, reiterated the importance of strengthening the role of local governments in fostering meaningful, sustained and innovative citizen participation.

„When we launched this initiative in Tirana in 2024, we envisioned creating a space for genuine exchange — one that brings together local authorities, associations, and practitioners around a shared commitment to democratic innovation“ she said. „Through our previous meetings, we’ve seen how powerful that vision can be. Your ongoing engagement has made this Community of Practice a living, evolving network“ Janevska concluded, thanking the members for their commitment.

Participants shared a range of practical insights and innovations, including good practices from the regions of Bruxelles and Ostbelgien (Belgium), and the City of Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina). Members of the Community of Practice shared their ongoing inspiring practices embedding democratic innovation, including targeted sessions on citizens’ assemblies for local officials, information sessions and even a first citizens’ assembly organised by the City of Sarajevo.  

The meeting reaffirmed the Community’s shared commitment to embedding deliberative principles into democratic institutions across the region. It underscored the importance of peer exchange in advancing inclusive, transparent, and responsive governance.

Community of Practice on Deliberative Democracy was established under the project “Promoting deliberative democracy and innovative approaches to citizen Participation in South-East Europe”, led by the Council of Europe’s Congress of Local and Regional Authorities in partnership with NALAS.