Democracy by Design: Using Digital Tools to Turn Polarised Debates into Cohesive Solutions

To counter polarization and strengthen cohesion in European communities, public debate and democratic decision making are essential. Digital tools can bring people out of polarized bubbles and into structured, democratic deliberation. Yet, online social networks show that poorly designed spaces fuel outrage, deepen divides and spread misinformation. The challenge is to design digital tools and processes in cities and regions so that they build cohesion and trust between residents and decision-makers. This workshop brings together PERYLCES researchers (www.perycles-project.eu) and practitioners to explore standards for digital democracy, as well as concrete tools, methods and process designs.