We are excited to share our IYTT Working Paper No 7 – December 2024 ‘Democratic World Cafés for Companies. Bridging the Gap Between the Private Sector and Active Participation in Democratic Society’. The working paper is authored by us –  Francesca Bonomo and Jan Ferrer i Picó, Youth Fellows. IYTT.

This paper introduces the innovative concept of “Democratic World Cafés for Companies”, a proposal designed to bring democratic discourse and active civic participation into corporate environments.

Born out of discussions at the 5th IYTT International Youth Conference in Barcelona (November 2023), this paper addresses the need for workplace democratization in an era where traditional democratic structures are facing significant challenges. It highlights the complex relationship between the traditional management structures and democratic values, offering new perspectives on how democratic principles can be implemented in corporate life.

Through a detailed review of existing literature and real-world examples, we explore the transformative potential of Democratic World Cafés for companies: creating spaces for open dialogue, fostering inclusivity, and enhancing employee satisfaction. The paper outlines the direct benefits of this approach, including improved innovation, better decision-making, and overall company performance. By encouraging active participation from a diverse range of voices, the Democratic World Café model aims to empower employees to shape their work environments, promoting a culture of engagement that extends beyond the workplace and into the broader democratic society.

This working paper offers actionable strategies for implementing these ideas in the private sector, and we invite academics, business leaders, and policymakers to engage with these ideas to drive positive change.

Francesca Bonomo and Jan Ferrer i Picó, Youth Fellows, IYTT