Written Statement: Innovating Democracy Advisory Group - Work Programme

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.