Deliberation and bureaucracy can live togetherDeliberative democracy is now officially entangled in state bureaucracy. By jumping into questions of bureaucracy and efficiency, Engaged California constitutes an important advance for a promising but underperforming democratic movement. But viewed up close, citizens assemblies are underwhelming -- feel-good exercises that are removed from the realities of governance. Political scientist David Farrell, who advised successful citizens assemblies in Ireland, has warned that the bodies risk losing effectiveness and political momentum. They offer a solution: Embed deliberative processes in the darkest, dirtiest corners of government.

Source: Bangkok Post February 22, 2026 22:12 UTC