Deliberative Democracy, Public Policy, and Local Government

"Podgórska-Rykala in her book combines reflection on issues central to the theory of deliberative democracy with research conducted among Polish initiators of democratic innovations. She skillfully argues for the more frequent use of such innovations in political practice."

Janusz Grygienc, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Poland

"This is an important book on the place of public deliberation in modern representative democracy. By illuminating how local political elites view deliberative mini-publics, Joanna Podgórska-Rykala shines new light on the prospects and challenges of strengthening the deliberative capacity of representative institutions. Essential reading for anyone who cares about democratic renewal!"

Carolyn M. Hendriks, Australian National University, Australia

"This book offers valuable insight into the development of citizens' assemblies across Poland. Podgórska-Rykala combines empirical research with interdisciplinary theory to address important questions about the growing phenomenon of deliberative mini-publics. This timely resource helps to understand the interplay between political elites, representative institutions, public policy, and democratic innovation."

Oliver Escobar, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK