Model Citizen Assemblies (MCA) for schools and communities

Adapted model of 3‑hour youth‑led democratic assemblies to learn civic skills and build consensus on real issues.

Model Citizen Assembly (MCA) is an educational adaptation of citizens’ assemblies, condensed into a 3‑hour session designed for schools and communities. With PSIs (Peace Child International), MCAs engage a diverse jury of 10–30 participants (including youth) and an optional audience, to deliberate a local or global issue—from park planning to existential threats like climate change, pandemics, or nuclear risk. Participants serve as both “spect‑actors” and decision‑makers, learning to evaluate evidence, question expert witnesses, reach consensus, and plan follow‑up actions. MCAs teach civic responsibility, critical thinking, and intergenerational collaboration. The format emphasizes simplicity, transparency, and youth ownership, encouraging young participants to research, facilitate debates, and translate assembly outcomes into real-world change. This tool empowers educators and youth organizations seeking to implement fast-paced, impactful democratic learning experiences.

Source: Peace Child International
Language: English

Year of publication: 2021