We are incredibly proud to announce the successful implementation of our very first pilot Citizens' Assembly in Colchester!
On February 28, 2026, the University of Essex opened its doors to 50 everyday citizens. We didn't ask for specialized experts or seasoned politicians; instead, we invited people with real, lived experiences to tackle one of their community's most critical and deeply personal challenges: housing.
What happened in that room was truly inspiring. Participants from incredibly diverse backgrounds came together to share their personal stories, exchange views, and collaborate on actionable policy recommendations. From the lack of affordable and social housing to the high costs of student accommodation and pressing accessibility barriers, the discussions were grounded in the reality of what it means to live and work in the community today.
Supported by our dedicated team of trained facilitators, this assembly brought the core values of the EU-CIEMBLY project to life. It proved the power of intersectionality and equality, showing that when you give citizens the space and tools to engage, participatory democracy genuinely works.
We captured the energy and impact of this major milestone in a quick, 1-minute teaser video. We invite you to step inside the room with us for a glimpse of what happens when 50 voices are empowered to shape the future of housing.
Watch the teaser below:
The Colchester Citizens’ Assembly: 50 Voices Shaping the Future of Housing | EU-CIEMBLY
