Statement by MS, Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary
for Climate Change and Rural Affairs
In April, I announced the membership of the new Innovating
Democracy Advisory Group (IDAG). The Group has been
established in response to the recommendations of
the Independent Commission on
the Constitutional Future of Wales. I committed to keep
the Senedd updated on developments in this area.
The Commission highlighted the need to strengthen Welsh democracy
by improving public understanding of democratic processes and
creating more inclusive opportunities for people to participate
in decision-making. The Group has been meeting regularly
since May and has agreed a work programme, which is
being published alongside this
statement.
This Group's work programme sets out a strategic and
collaborative approach to addressing these challenges.
The programme focuses on three core ambitions:
-
Empowering Citizens through Democratic Education and
Information
IDAG will explore how to ensure all people in
Wales—particularly young people and under-represented
groups—have the knowledge, confidence, and opportunities to
participate meaningfully in democratic life.
-
Strengthening Political Culture for Participation and
Deliberation
Recognising that citizens involvement in democracy must extend
beyond elections, IDAG will assess how to foster a culture of
participation within Welsh political institutions.
-
Laying Foundations for Constitutional
Principles
IDAG will support the Welsh Government in exploring how to
develop a participatory process for articulating a shared set
of constitutional principles and values for Wales.
This work aligns with our broader commitments to equality,
participation, and the well-being of future generations and will
be taken forward in partnership with stakeholders across
government, education, civil society and beyond.
I look forward to seeing the Innovating Democracy Advisory Group
develop this programme into practical actions that will help
build a stronger, more inclusive democracy for Wales.
