Citizens’ assemblies are groups of ordinary people.
They are chosen by lottery, not elected.

The group is made to match the population.
That means a mix of ages, genders, regions, and backgrounds.

They meet for several days or weekends.
First, they get clear, balanced information about a public issue.
They can question experts and hear different viewpoints.

Then they talk in small groups with a trained facilitator.
Everyone gets a chance to speak and listen.

After discussing, they work toward recommendations.
These are suggestions for laws or policies.

Their report goes to politicians or the public.
The idea is: “What would the public think if it had time to really learn and discuss?”