Let Citizens' Assemblies Decide
Dr. Ronen Gofer argues that citizens' assemblies, selected by representative lottery, can break the political deadlock in Israel on complex issues such as ultra-Orthodox conscription, public transportation on Shabbat, and a constitution. He presents examples from Ireland, France, and Iceland, and describes a successful experiment in local authorities in Israel. Gofer calls for a brave political leader to mandate such an assembly now.
Dr. Ronen Gofer, an expert on governance and democracy, argues in this opinion piece that citizens' assemblies are the solution to Israel's political deadlock on fundamental issues dividing society: ultra-Orthodox conscription, a constitution, and religion and state. According to him, no government has succeeded in resolving these issues for fear of political cost. Gofer presents the model: a representative group of citizens selected by lottery, who study the topic with experts and formulate recommendations. He brings examples from around the world: Ireland (abortion, 2018), France (climate, end of life), and Iceland (constitutional drafting). In Israel, the Citizens' Assembly Lab, in which Gofer is involved, has successfully operated assemblies in local authorities. Gofer calls on a political leader to commit to establishing a national assembly, arguing that it would add a missing voice to the government and allow politicians to solve problems without paying a political price.