The publication documents the entire process of the Future Council U24 – from the initial idea through implementation to the handover of recommendations to policymakers. It illustrates how a sortition-based citizen assembly can involve young people aged 16 to 24 in political decision-making. Based on a scientific evaluation, the report highlights the impact on participants, the public, and institutions. At the same time, it discusses key learnings: What is needed for deliberative formats like citizen assemblies to have a lasting effect?
Key insights from the project emphasize the importance of early political integration, reliable standards, and strong alliances with civil society partners. The publication outlines challenges, potential, and specific recommendations for future youth participation formats. Two new initiatives emerged from the project: the alumni initiative LOS jetzt, promoting local youth engagement, and the “Zukunftsrat Zentrum”, which continues the work on mental health recommendations. The Future Council U24 was an experiment—now it needs structures to turn it into institutional innovation.
The Learning Publication can be ordered in print under this link.