In this policy brief, ISEED examines the impact of climate change discourse and political polarization on democratic regimes. It highlights how Twitter debates about Poland’s participation in the European Green Transition contribute to social and political divisions.

These online discussions (such as on Twitter), often dominated by simplistic slogans, tend to be more polarized than those in professional media. 

ISEED recommends engaging with public sentiments to develop strategies that encourage inclusive and informed dialogue on climate issues. Considering users’ perspectives on technology is crucial for the successful adoption and implementation of mobile data collection technologies. 

In this policy brief, ISEED addresses the challenge of fostering authentic communication, inclusion, and active listening in democratic forums. Recognizing the role of emotions, affects, and personal experiences alongside rational thinking in shaping deliberative engagements is crucial.

The key question to be developed is how to engage both reason and emotion to support informed, inclusive, and productive collective reflection, essential for deliberative democratic governance.

ISEED identifies various approaches as relevant here, including behavioral science, feminist theory, neuroscience, psychology, and science and technology studies, highlighting the importance of the arts and of applied theater in enhancing deliberative engagements which attend to both thinking and feeling.

In this brief ISEED emphasizes the importance of citizen participation in democratic governance. This is key to promote inclusivity and enhance the legitimacy of policies.

While societies aim for greater transparency and responsiveness, involving citizens ensures considering diverse perspectives. Still, challenges such as choosing and combining participatory methods, managing information dissemination, and maintaining public engagement arise. 

ISEED explores the effectiveness of different models for citizen inclusion in democratic process, the impact of digitalization, and the need for equitable representation. Policymakers face the challenge of creating frameworks that empower citizens while ensuring efficiency, requiring innovative solutions to navigate complexities and mobilize the collective wisdom of diverse communities.