Landtag invites 5,000 candidates for Citizens' Council - North Rhine-Westphalia Taps Citizens to Shape AI for Ageing Independence
North Rhine-Westphalia is launching its first citizens' assembly focused on artificial intelligence and quality of life in old age. Starting in April 2026, the initiative will bring together residents to discuss how AI can help older people live independently. The state parliament has already given the green light for the project to move forward.
The process begins with 5,000 randomly selected residents aged 16 and older receiving invitation letters. An external service provider will handle the selection, ensuring the group reflects the state’s diversity in age, gender, region, and social background. From those who respond, 80 participants will be chosen to form the final assembly.
The assembly’s goal is clear: to explore how AI technologies can improve daily life for the elderly. After months of discussion, the group will present a set of recommendations to the state parliament. These proposals will focus on practical ways AI could support independent living as people age. To oversee the project, the state parliament’s Council of Elders has approved an advisory board. This board will guide the assembly’s organisation and ensure the process runs smoothly. The first session is set for April 2026, marking the start of what could shape future policies on ageing and technology.
The assembly’s findings will be handed directly to the state parliament for consideration. With 80 residents involved, the recommendations will draw on a wide range of perspectives. The project aims to turn public input into actionable plans for AI’s role in an ageing society.
