Climate

Citizens for Climate is an EU-funded project led by Democracy International, in partnership with Ashoka and six other organisations across seven EU Member States. The project works to bridge the gap between citizens, civil society, social entrepreneurs, and policymakers, amplifying participatory tools that give people a real voice in climate governance.

Across Europe, too many people feel disconnected from the decisions that affect them most, even as climate change demands collective action that is truly inclusive. Citizens for Climate brings these actors together to explore how citizen participation is driving climate policy and decision-making, and to build a Europe-wide Climate Participation Booklet, a guide to participatory approaches in climate governance.

As part of the project, Ashoka hosted a Participation Pop-Up on 29 April at Impact House in Brussels, bringing together speakers including Ashoka Fellows Ignace Schops (Klimaatzaak/Affaire Climat, Belgium) and Jennifer Uchendu (SustyVibes, Nigeria), alongside Ben Eersels (G1000, Belgium) and Adélaïde Charlier (The Bridge, Belgium).

Citizens for Climate is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or Democracy International.

On 29 April 2026, Ashoka’s Participation Hub and People & Planet initiative brought together social entrepreneurs, young changemakers, narrative specialists and EU policymakers in Brussels to explore how climate narratives can strengthen public engagement and enable lasting policy change.

Building on a 2.5-day gathering of changemakers and experts, participants shared practical examples and examined how different framings can build trust, broaden participation and connect climate action to everyday concerns. Discussions stressed the need to move beyond fear and sacrifice towards practical solutions and shared benefits, such as affordability, health and energy security.

These insights will inform future Participation Labs on how institutions can turn new narratives into concrete policies and make sustainable choices easier and more accessible.