Fostering domestic innovations in Wales: Lessons from around the world
Think tank: Institute of Welsh Affairs
Author(s): Dr Anwen Elias; Dr Eleri Phillips; Dr Jennifer Wolowic
March 4, 2025
This report from UK think tank the Institute of Welsh Affairs examines democratic innovations across the world and how they could be implemented in a Welsh context.
Our new report, Fostering Democratic Innovations in Wales, produced in collaboration with Aberystwyth University and the Centre for Welsh Politics and Society, examines democratic innovations put into practice across the world, and how they could be implemented in a Welsh context.
Democracy in Wales is not in good health: we have seen a particularly low turnout in recent elections, lack of knowledge of how government works, and diminishing trust in politics and politicians. Most people in Wales feel unable to influence the political decisions that impact their daily lives, and there is a general sense that life is not getting any better or easier. These challenges are not unique to Wales, and in response, we have seen a growing interest in finding ways to do democracy differently.
This report seeks to answer: how can we create a healthier democracy for all? It aims to raise awareness of democratic innovations by explaining what they are and how they add value to democratic politics.
The report showcases best practice in the design and delivery of these innovations from countries, regions and communities across the world, and identifies steps for their implementation in Wales.
