In this episode of Vienna Coffee House Conversations with Ivan Vejvoda, Europe's Futures Fellow Ieva Česnulaitytė weighs in on the current state and future of democracy, particularly focusing on citizen participation and deliberation. Česnulaitytė, with her extensive experience in democratic innovations, sheds light on the declining trust in institutions and the growing polarization and misrepresentation in current democracies. They delve into innovative practices like citizens' assemblies and participatory budgeting, exploring their potential in bridging the gap between citizens and governance. Česnulaitytė highlights various international examples of democratic innovation, emphasizing the crucial role of technology in enabling cross-language deliberation. The conversation also touches upon the importance of in-person deliberation in rebuilding trust and combating polarization. They discuss the specific challenges and opportunities in Central and Southeastern Europe, acknowledging the region's progress and potential in democratic development. The episode concludes with a hopeful note on democracy's capacity for reinvention and adaptation, considering the evolving global landscape. Key Topics: Declining trust in democratic institutions and the rise of populism. The role of citizens' assemblies and deliberative processes in enhancing democratic participation. The impact of technology in facilitating cross-cultural and language deliberation. The importance of in-person interaction in democracy. Challenges and progress in democratization in Central and Southeastern Europe.