A citizens’ panel is an innovative way to engage residents in jointly discussing important issues and providing recommendations to decision-makers. Its goal is to enrich policymaking and strengthen public trust.

Participants are selected through a democratic lottery to ensure a representative cross-section of the population — a “mini-Estonia.” Everyone has an equal chance of being selected. All residents of Estonia can register their interest in taking part, and thousands will also receive personal invitations based on random sampling. From among those who register, a computer algorithm selects 30 people who, as a group, best reflect the diversity of Estonia’s population. These selected individuals will receive a confirmation letter and further information in mid-August.

Participation is voluntary, but we ask that those who join commit to the full process. Active engagement in discussions, openness to learning, and contributing to proposals are essential. You don’t need to be an expert, and you don’t have to change your opinions or worldview — you simply represent one part of Estonia’s diverse population.

Participation is free of charge, and meals are provided on the days of the assembly. The events will take place in different locations across Estonia, with detailed information shared with confirmed participants. Travel expenses will be reimbursed, and participants will receive a daily allowance.

The citizens’ assembly takes place over five days on weekends. It is important to attend at least one day each weekend in person and to participate in the final vote on the collective proposals. The organizing team will help find solutions to ensure that selected participants from across Estonia can take part in the discussion days on site.

The list of participants will not be made public during the citizens’ assembly. Each participant has the right to decide for themselves how they wish to share their involvement with the public. During the assembly, participants can indicate if they do not wish to appear in photos or video footage.

As a result of the process, the citizens’ assembly — representing the diversity of Estonia — will formulate shared positions and proposals on the topics discussed. These proposals will serve as the basis for public initiatives that anyone can support with their signature — together, we can bring the outcomes to the Riigikogu. All results will be made public.

All materials related to the citizens’ assembly — including schedules, background materials, and outcomes — will be made publicly available on the website and shared via social media channels. You can also subscribe to the citizens’ assembly newsletter to stay informed about key moments throughout the process.

The citizens’ panel process is designed to provide participants with sufficient information, time, and guidance to make thoughtful, collective proposals on complex topics. It does not replace the role of experts, stakeholders, political parties, or other societal actors in policymaking, but it offers a way to form and share a population-wide perspective.