Deliberative processes require sufficient time for the group to consider a wide range of information, deliberate and find agreement on recommendations.
Vulnerabilities with Examples:
- Complexity: Insufficient time allocated to understand complex issues thoroughly.
- Issue Polarization: Rushed deliberations may exacerbate tensions.
Mitigating Techniques/Strategies, with Examples:
- Extend the duration of assemblies dealing with complex issues.
- In Bosnia, organisers experienced time constraints but they led to more productive work (without reducing the process below recommendation lengths for a deliberation). However they also took time to allow participants to debate any polarising issues. If this is rushed then the outcome of such deliberations can exacerbate tensions.
- Schedule additional time for sensitive or polarizing topics to allow thorough discussion.
- Consider the need for pre-deliberation work that builds the foundation for a deliberation.