Can a Town of 30 Citizens Turn Democracy Upside Down?

In a bold move to redefine democracy, the town of Ostbelgien in Belgium is handing the reins over to its citizens. Through the Ostbelgien Model, 30 randomly-selected locals are getting a unique opportunity to deeply engage with pressing societal issues. It’s not just a feel-good project; these citizens are directly influencing policies around housing, youth employment, and education—areas that many believe are crying out for change.

This grassroots experiment is already making waves beyond Ostbelgien. The methods being used there have inspired other regions, including Paris, which set up its own citizens’ assembly based on the Ostbelgien Model. Minister-president Oliver Paasch has been vocal about how vital it is for politicians to trust citizens if they want to earn trust in return. Who knew that real democracy might just start with a dozen and a half folks coming together for a chat? Imagine the possibilities!