WHAT MAKES A GOOD LIFE?
A good life doesn’t happen by itself. It is created together. The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is a nationwide event that brings together diverse people from across Estonia to collectively reflect on how to steer our society toward the wellbeing of both people and nature.
The citizens’ panel strengthens collective will for sustainable change by bringing the voices of everyday residents into decision-making. It is grounded in the best available knowledge, in-depth deliberation, and the pursuit of common ground — setting an example for how decisions can be made differently. That’s why a citizens’ assembly is a celebration of democracy.
The aim of the Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is to amplify the impact of various initiatives calling for alternative economic models and to help shape future policymaking. This year, several initiatives are unfolding to shape our shared future. Hakkab looma! — a future-dreaming campaign — invites people to share their visions through mid-August; in October, the “Degrowth Estonia” and “Biotoopia” conferences will host conversations on Life in Post-Growth Estonia; and in November, Rohetiiger will unveil its vision for a balanced economy in Estonia.
Reflecting on
the Good Life
The citizens’ panel brings together a representative sample of Estonia's population (a "mini-Estonia") of 30 people to discuss what constitutes a good life and whether our current policies support it.
A new approach to decisionmaking
We are testing a small-scale citizens' assembly (citizen panel) as a model that can help our society to address complex issues, overcome disagreements, and foster greater unity.
Settings changes in motion
We believe that meaningful change begins with the readiness of citizens and the courage of decision-makers. As a result of the citizens’ panel policymakers gain the confidence to prioritize the well-being of people and nature - and not solely economic growth.
How does it work?
The citizens’ assembly is made up of 30 diverse individuals from across Estonia who reflect the richness of our population. They represent real lives and real concerns — and a shared desire to shape a better future.
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life consists of 30 people from across Estonia who represent the country’s population. It is intended for all residents of Estonia. The final list of participants is determined through a representative random selection.
In August–September 2025, over three weekends, with a total of five days of meetings.
We will articulate a collective understanding of what is needed for a good life and identify key initiatives in Estonia that can better align societal development with the wellbeing of people and nature.
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life consists of 30 people from across Estonia who represent the country’s population. It is intended for all residents of Estonia. The final list of participants is determined through a representative random selection.
In August–September 2025, over three weekends, with a total of five days of meetings.
We will articulate a collective understanding of what is needed for a good life and identify key initiatives in Estonia that can better align societal development with the wellbeing of people and nature.
INTERESTED IN TAKING PART?
MEMBER OF THE PANEL
Register your interest to be considered for participation in the citizens’ panel. Those selected through the random lottery will receive an invitation to join the panel in August.
OBSERVER, EXPERT
You can also take part in the citizens’ panel as an observer, stakeholder, or expert — read more about these additional opportunities.
MIks see oluline on?
ÜHISMEELE SUUNAS: mini-Eesti annab kollektiivse hinnangu, kuidas praegused valdkonnapoliitikad toetavad inimeste ja looduse heaolu. Loodav konsensus sünnib heade arutelude käigus ühisosast, mitte erimeelsustest.
ÜHISKONDLIK ARUTELU: rahvakogus osalejad saavad hulga teadmisi hea elu komponentidest, piisavusest, üleilmsetest trendidest ja teistes riikides kasutusel olevatest alternatiivsetest majandusmudelitest. Uute teadmiste valguses lastakse lahti vanadest veendumustest, mis meid ühiskonnana enam ei kanna. Käivitub laiem ühiskondlik arutelu inimeste ja looduse heaolu teemal.
AVALIKULE SEKTORILE UUS OSALUSMUDEL: rahvakogu disain loob näidise, kuidas avalik sektor saab tulevikus keerulisi ja pikaajalisi teemasid koos elanikega arutada ja otsustada.
Previous Citizens’ Assemblies in Estonia
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is the sixth citizens’ assembly held in Estonia — and the second at the national level.
ORGANIZERS
The Citizens’ Panel on Good Life is organized by a civil society coalition: the DD Democracy Centre, which develops citizens’ assemblies; the think tank Praxis, which generates new knowledge; the Estonian Cooperation Assembly, which manages the public initiative platform; and the Network of Estonian Nonprofit Organizations, which represents public-interest groups. These same organizations have also been involved in organizing previous citizens’ assemblies.
You can find more information about the organizers HERE.
FUNDING
The citizens’ assembly is supported by the European Union and the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) through Mondo’s NOPLANETB project. It is co-funded by the Nordic Council of Ministers Office in Estonia and the DD Democracy Centre. The content is the sole responsibility of the DD Democracy Centre and can under no circumstances be regarded as reflecting the views of the European Union or ESTDEV.
MENU:
CONTACT:
Email: rahvakogud@dd.foundation
Address: Raekoja plats 1, Tartu; Telliskivi 60a, Tallinn
