Roundtable on Democratic Experimentation and Sustainability Transformations

Organized by Working Group on Democracy

Across the world, alternative imaginaries of more democratic and sustainable praxis are emerging. While the potential contribution of forms of democratic experimentation to sustainability is widely acknowledged, we still lack an understanding of their contribution to wider sustainability transformations. In particular, comparative approaches are lacking that bring together insights from across different world regions and different forms of democratic experimentation. This session therefore aims to delve into the dynamic intersection of democratic experimentation and sustainability transformations by bringing together and comparing insights from several case studies.

This Roundtable showcases diverse cases, such as sustainability grassroots movements, autonomous communities, deliberative democracy practices, food collectives, and transition labs. Each case study will provide insights into the entry points for these initiatives, ranging from sustainability, democracy, to disaster responses. Moreover, each contribution will discuss how democratic practices are envisioned and practiced within these initiatives. Through concise pitches (5 minutes each), speakers will elucidate the contributions and limitations of their respective case studies in terms of fostering just sustainability transformations. This may include reflections on the emergence of new imaginaries for sustainability, post-capitalist praxis, more-than-human constituencies, issues of scale and institutionalization, relations to the state, and reflections on equity and justice.

Following the pitches, the session will transition into an overarching discussion, facilitating the exchange of ideas and insights among all participants. By bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences, this session aims to deepen our understanding of the role of democratic experimentation in driving sustainable transformations.

We welcome all who are interested in this critical dialogue and encourage contributions from various fields of research and practice.