Democs (DEliberative Meeting Of Citizens)

is a new approach to involving citizens in public policy issues. It was developed by the new economics foundation to make it easy for people to work out, share and express their views on complex topical issues, such as stem cell research, GM food, or international trade.

The heart of a Democ is a card game, in kit form, that brings 6-8 people together at any one time, who have no prior knowledge on the subject matter. They find out the facts and the issues of that subject area, seek common ground in their understanding, and share their views. A Democ lasts from 1-2.5 hours. It can be facilitated by the group itself (with a chair) in informal settings (pub, kitchen table), or by an external facilitator as part of a formal public meeting.

It can be used:
- To raise awareness on an issue
- To inform a longer process of policy formation
- As a tool to deliver secondary and further education(primarily
citizenship and science)

Democs is a card game that enables people to discuss, and inform themselves about topical issues, like homelessness, human stem cell research and GM food. Democs is copyright new economics foundation 2000, some rights reserved.

Direct line: 020 7820 6329
Email: karen.smith@neweconomics.org

New Economics Foundation
3 Jonathan Street
London SE11 5NH

www.neweconomics.org
Tel: 020 7820 6300
Fax: 020 7820 6301