What is the normative added value of deliberative mini publics in the context of climate policy making?

Abstract This paper contributes to the debate on the normative value(s) of deliberative mini publics (DMPs) in climate policy‐making. We discuss different conceptions of the objectives of DMPs, such as increasing democratic legitimacy, effectiveness, and social acceptance. Following, we critically assess the plausibility of each conception and argue why meaningful and independent participation is crucial for increasing democratic legitimacy. We also show that even if the instrumental perspective of climate policy effectiveness seems necessary against the background of the advancing climate crisis, it cannot be produced through deliberative formats without central democratic principles being ignored. Furthermore, we highlight that social acceptance as a primary objective is highly problematic because it threatens to lead to manipulation and sham participation.