Democracy@TAU 2026/27
LEARNING, CREATING AND DECIDING TOGETHER
Following the 2025 pilot, we are preparing the next Democracy@TAU cycle at Tel Aviv University. The 2026/27 plan connects the stages across the academic year: community selection of an issue, a diverse student assembly, learning and deliberation, a shared proposal and a university-wide referendum.
Preparations are underway. The issue will be chosen through the process; participation details and the timetable will follow as the format is finalized.
2026/27: the planned process
FIRST SEMESTER · CHOOSE A QUESTION AND PREPARE
The community will be invited to propose and select an issue. Preparations also include recruiting participants, convening the assembly and developing background materials that present a range of positions and arguments. The issue is not predetermined: choosing it belongs within the democratic process.
A MORE DIVERSE ASSEMBLY
We aim to convene approximately 40–50 students through a representative lottery, bringing together disciplines, backgrounds and perspectives. Preparations include connecting the Kelim Shluvim and She’ar Ruach programs to widen the encounter across campus.
SECOND SEMESTER · LEARN, DELIBERATE AND CREATE ALTERNATIVES
In the planned course and assembly, participants will meet experts and advocates of different positions, examine arguments and alternatives, and work toward a shared proposal. Deliberation should enable collective creation while giving disagreement and reservations a meaningful place. The aim is democratic co-authorship: shaping possibilities and decisions together.
CONNECT THE CAMPUS AND MOVE TOWARD A DECISION
Alongside face-to-face meetings, a planned digital component will make knowledge accessible and allow the wider community to respond to the assembly’s work. The process is intended to culminate in a referendum open to students, faculty and administrative staff. Research and evaluation will help improve participation and the process over time.
The plan is still developing. The timetable, participation arrangements and referendum format will be announced once preparations are completed.