All weekend, 60 participants sat in intensive negotiations. They are statistically selected to together form a “mini-Sweden” – a democratic experiment. The question was whether people with different opinions can be lifted out of their filter bubbles, and whether they can reason face to face to arrive at a common plan of action.
They have had the country’s leading climate scientists to help them, who provided them with independent facts.
– It has been fantastic to follow this process during the spring and during these 48 hours, the deep discussions on complicated issues, where you listen to each other with respect, says research leader Jim Daw at Stockholm University.
Action plan in 22 areas
During the spring, the participants had conversations in digital chat rooms and chiseled out an action plan in 22 areas. On Sunday, a final vote took place. Among the measures are recommendations on investing in public transport, nationalizing train traffic and introducing tax refunds for those who make climate-smart lifestyle choices, such as taking night trains instead of flights.
Representatives from seven of the Riksdag’s eight parties were present to receive the action plan.
– I will share this with my colleagues in the environment and agriculture committee and read and see what I use, said Helena Storckenfeld (M).
But she did not want to comment on individual proposals, such as the introduction of high-cost protection in public transport, where you will be allowed to travel for free after a certain amount limit.
– The Citizens’ Council shows strong popular support for reducing emissions and investing in the transport sector, and that there is a lack of popular support for the government’s policy of shockingly increasing emissions, said Elin Söderberg (MP).
One of the participants that SVT followed during the spring was not so optimistic that the council’s recommendations will be implemented by the politicians.
– I’m not sure, to be honest, I hope it will listen to the suggestions, we’ll see where it goes, said Karin Wingkvist from Falun.