The Irish Constitutional Convention

The Irish Constitutional Convention was a citizen-led assembly established in 2012 to consider constitutional reforms, including potential changes to abortion laws, electoral reform, and the presidency. Comprising randomly selected citizens, along with politicians and experts, it discussed key issues over several sessions, aiming to ensure public involvement in constitutional decision-making. The convention’s recommendations influenced government actions, notably leading to the 2018 referendum that liberalized Ireland’s abortion laws. It exemplified a democratic effort to involve ordinary citizens directly in shaping the country’s fundamental laws, fostering transparency and broader public engagement in constitutional reform processes.