Towards Interoperability: Pursuing an ontology for data exchange between deliberative democratic platforms

Abstract

In response to the fragmented state of civic engagement tools and the urgent challenges facing democratic systems, this paper introduces a shared, contributor-driven ontology to connect diverse civic tech platforms, emerging from the work of the Interoperable Deliberative Tool cohort at Metagov. By integrating platforms like Voice to Vision, Assemblis, and Decidim, we enable the flow of deliberative data across contexts, supporting more cohesive decision-making. This approach helps bridge gaps between input, analysis, and action, enhancing democratic resilience in crisis moments. Through our work, we demonstrate how interoperability can strengthen civic engagement and provide a foundation for more responsive, collaborative governance.