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About us

Breadcrumb

  1. Queen Mary University of London
  2. About us
  3. Sustainability
  4. Sustainable development goals
  5. Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
  6. Engagement

Engagement

Citizen’s Assembly of Trade and Climate 

Queen Mary co-convened the world's first Citizens’ Assembly on Trade and Climate with Trade Justice Movement and MutualGain, creating a neutral and independently facilitated space where different perspectives on trade and climate policy could be discussed openly and respectfully.

Fifty-nine participants, selected to reflect the demographic diversity of the UK population, spent 35 hours considering evidence from government, business, trade unions, civil society and academic experts. An Advisory Board and independent Evidence Committee helped ensure participants received balanced and accurate information from across the political and professional spectrum.

Through facilitated discussions and deliberative workshops, participants examined competing viewpoints, debated policy trade-offs and developed 15 recommendations for the UK Government, each supported by at least 80 per cent of Assembly members. The recommendations were subsequently launched at the UK Parliament, creating a direct link between public deliberation and policymaking.

Mile End Institute 

The Mile End Institute, Queen Mary's centre for politics and public policy, provides an ongoing neutral space and platform for informed public debate on contemporary political challenges. Bringing together politicians, policymakers, academics, journalists, campaigners and members of the public, the Institute hosts events on issues including elections, economic policy, democratic reform and international politics.

 In 2025, events included How to Replace ‘First Past the Post’: Electoral Reform in Action, where participants examined competing electoral systems and debated options for reform. By creating a neutral space for evidence-based discussion between stakeholders with different political perspectives, the Institute supports informed dialogue on major public policy challenges.

 

Civic University Agreement

Queen Mary's Civic University Agreement provides the University's framework for civic engagement across East London. Developed with input from more than 300 residents, businesses, community organisations, students and staff, it identifies five shared priorities for long-term action: inclusive place-making, lifelong opportunity, health and sustainability, culture and civic practice. Stakeholder engagement, co-analysis and collaborative prioritisation underpin its development and delivery.

Equitable Partnerships

Queen Mary's Principles of Equitable Partnership in Public Engagement were co-designed with community organisations and external partners. The principles promote inclusive engagement, shared decision-making, recognition of community expertise and mutual benefit, helping ensure that community voices are embedded in the University's partnerships, research and public engagement activity.

Civic Advisory Board

The Civic Advisory Board oversees the direction and implementation of Queen Mary’s Civic University Agreement. Its membership combines senior Queen Mary leaders with strategic partners from across the seven East London boroughs, including representatives from local authorities, education, health, business, voluntary organisations, faith organisations and community sectors. External stakeholders therefore take part in the governance of Queen Mary’s civic work rather than being consulted only after decisions have been made.

East London Civic Action Network

The East London Civic Action Network provides a wider participatory mechanism. It brings together residents, organisations, institutions, networks and leaders from across East London to identify shared challenges and develop collaborative action with Queen Mary.

At its launch in September 2024, more than 100 people came together at Redbridge Town Hall, including faith communities, voluntary and community organisations, local authorities, NHS teams, elected leaders and Queen Mary researchers and staff. The first meeting focused on health equity and was designed to build connections, identify priorities and develop collaboration across East London. The Network continues through events and regular communication around the priorities of the Civic University Agreement. These mechanisms give local stakeholders a continuing role in shaping Queen Mary’s civic priorities, partnerships and activities.

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