Synthesis report

Introduction to the Report

The REAL DEAL Synthesis Report evaluates innovative participatory democracy models for the European Green Deal (EGD).

Through extensive citizen assemblies, focus groups, roundtables, and Delphi panels, the project aims to establish a protocol for meaningful stakeholder and citizen deliberation, ensuring inclusive decision-making in climate governance.

Advancing Deliberative Democracy for a Green Europe: The REAL DEAL Synthesis Report

Summary of Key Findings and Innovations

The REAL DEAL project pioneers new approaches to deliberative democracy, ensuring that citizens and stakeholders play a central role in shaping the European Green Deal (EGD). Funded by Horizon 2020, this report synthesizes findings from 13 European countries, assessing the effectiveness of different participatory formats in environmental and climate policy discussions.

Key Insights from the Report

1. Testing Multiple Deliberative Formats
   The study examines the effectiveness of four primary formats in engaging citizens and stakeholders:

   • Focus Groups: Targeted at structurally excluded groups to amplify underrepresented voices.
   • Citizen Assemblies: Bringing randomly selected citizens together for structured climate deliberations.
   • Roundtables: Gathering diverse stakeholder groups to negotiate policy solutions.
   • Delphi Panels: Expert-driven discussions to identify knowledge gaps and policy trade-offs.

2. Inclusive Participation and Equity

   • The project found that citizen empowerment, fairness, and transparency were key drivers of successful engagement.
   • Delphi panels helped bridge knowledge gaps, making complex policies more accessible to citizens.
   • A combined approach (e.g., integrating citizen assemblies with expert panels) led to more informed, impactful decisions.

3. Impact on Climate Policy and Governance

   • Although short-term policy effects were difficult to measure, findings suggest that informed citizens and stakeholders contribute to better governance outcomes.
   • Representation matters—ensuring participation from disadvantaged groups enhances the legitimacy of climate policies.

Policy Recommendations

• Institutionalize Citizen Participation: European institutions should integrate structured deliberative mechanisms into policy cycles.
• Promote Hybrid Engagement Models: Combining online platforms with in-person assemblies can widen participation.
• Ensure Policy Responsiveness: Mechanisms should be in place to translate deliberative outcomes into concrete policy actions.

Conclusion

The REAL DEAL Synthesis Report confirms that participatory democracy is essential to achieving the European Green Deal’s ambitious climate goals. By embedding inclusive, well-structured deliberative processes, European institutions can build public trust, enhance policy legitimacy, and accelerate climate action.

Find out more about the REAL DEAL project