An ongoing initiative by the French government to inspire dialogue and debate among citizens on four key issues: taxation & public spending, state organization of public services, the environment, and democracy & citizenship.
Problems and Purpose
The French government organized the "Great National Debate" in response to the "Yellow vests" protests. From January-April 2019, French citizens all over the country are invited to discuss and give their opinions on taxation & public spending, state organization of public services, the environment, and democracy & citizenship. Participation is both online and in-person during city-organized town halls.[1]
Background History and Context
Organizing, Supporting, and Funding Entities
Participant Recruitment and Selection
Methods and Tools Used
The Great National Debate uses five methods of citizen engagement:
- "Local town meetings" organized throughout France on the initiative of mayors or citizens
- Kiosks/stands in places of high foot-traffic
- A questionnaire and contribution form on www.granddebat.fr
- Mail-in questionnaires/letters
- "Citizens' Conferences" (conférences citoyennes) starting on March 1 will bring together a random selection of people from each region and representatives of various stakeholders, to develop concrete ideas, give their opinion on what emerges from the first weeks of the debate, and give feedback on the process of citizen engagement.[2]
What Went On: Process, Interaction, and Participation
Influence, Outcomes, and Effects
Analysis and Lessons Learned
See Also
References
[1] “Le Grand Débat National,” Gouvernement.Fr, December 28, 2018, https://www.gouvernement.fr/le-grand-debat-national.
[2] Valérie Mazuir, “Le Grand Débat National,” Lesechos.Fr(Les Echos, January 29, 2019), https://www.lesechos.fr/politique-societe/dossiers/0600475287421/0600475287421-gilets-jaunes-le-grand-debat-national-2234599.php.
External Links
Official site: https://www.gouvernement.fr/le-grand-debat-national