Facilitating Silences in Deliberative Assemblies

This article examines silence in deliberative assemblies, challenging conventional assumptions that equate silence only with failure to engage or withdrawing from the conversation. Instead, drawing on recent developments in democratic theory and empirical observations from global and local deliberative forums, we explore t how silence can, be a strong signal of opposition and allowing for more equitable participation, though it is often not recognized as such. Thus, this article warns against solely interpreting silence as problematic, rushing to "bridge" or "correct" or forcing verbalization, rInstead, we can recognize its political message, as well as its potential for deepening discourse. We illustrate how both the intentional and improvisational use of silence can transform deliberative practice by creating space for reflection, for more equitable participation, and for bearing witness. Thus, reflective silences can be deliberately integrated into deliberative assemblies to realize core deliberative norms. As we differentiate distinct forms of silence in deliberative assemblies, we notice that reflective silences can slow deliberative processes, creating space for participants to move beyond reactive responses toward more considered engagement. Silence during structured reflection time allows participants to process complex information and experiences, particularly valuable in contexts involving articulate, energetic groups where continuous speaking may prevent deeper understanding. Silence can also be a powerful communal act that enables bearing witness and solidarity, functioning to build community and acknowledge shared experiences or tragedies that resist verbalization without risking trivialization through forced speech. The article highlights critical design considerations for listening more deeply to communicative silences by distinguishing non-response from consent, thus avoiding silence being misinterpreted as agreement or comprehension. We also illustrate ways of intentionally inviting reflective silences, and of honoring spontaneous collective witnessing.