Two weeks ago ESA’s Citizens’ Debate on Space for Europe took place simultaneously in 22 countries, where more than 2,000 citizens had the chance to discuss the future directions of European space activities. One of a kind, this year’s debate was the first in the history of the European Space Agency since it was founded in 1975.

The objective of this initiative was to get to know the opinion of the European citizens, their visions and their expectations on space, to be reflected on the final decisions regarding outer space activities.

Around 100 citizens selected per country from various backgrounds and levels of knowledge about the industry (I was one of the lucky ones) dedicated an entire day to dialogue in depth about outer space sovereignty, new technologies, the commercialization and privatization of the industry, the military use of space, or the economic benefits of space race among other topics.

Gran éxito de participación en el debate ciudadano de la @esa #ESACD2016 ??#ESABICMadridRegion @KIM_global pic.twitter.com/aOs9LbXRHM

— madrimasd (@madrimasd) September 10, 2016

Spain was the country with the most number of applicants, around 300, and participants, 93. In Madrid the debate ran smoothly, the participants were divided into small groups coordinated by a moderator who guided all the conversations. The event consisted of two main sessions divided into a total of seven parts, all presented with a video. The main goal was to answer seven questionnaires after discussing each and one of the topics. But it was not all hard work, we also got a diploma, some gifts, nice food, and the most important thing, the chance to share a day with other space fans.

It was a very interesting and productive experience having the opportunity to opine about important topics regarding the future of the Agency. I hope there is another edition where more citizens could speak their minds and be able to decide the future path to follow in space exploration.

Thanks #ESACD2016 for the wonderful experience in Madrid. Amazing ideas from all participants and inspiring debates pic.twitter.com/XQLGEhrlfv

— Austr. Space Forum (@oewf) September 10, 2016

If you are interested on the results of the debate from all countries, you can find all the details on the website:www.citizensdebate.space/results

About the Author:
Silvia Gimenéz Torregrosa OeWF member from Spain and OeWF Social Media team member participated in the first ESA citizins debate on 10th September 2016.