Despite the enormous potential of digital communication platforms (DCPs) to disseminate information and facilitate deliberative public discourse without interference from traditional gatekeepers, they are subject to widespread criticism due to problems such as misinformation and societal polarization. While this criticism is supported by numerous empirical studies, current research lacks an alternative positive vision that integrates DCPs and normative ideals for public discourse. To this end, we develop design knowledge for deliberative DCPs according to the ideals of Habermas’ theory of communicative action (TCA). Specifically, we develop TCA-based meta-requirements and utilize network gatekeeping theory to develop suitable design principles for their implementation. Thereby, we contribute design knowledge of a normatively grounded DCP that can assist researchers, system designers, and policy makers seeking a foundation for the conception, development, and regulation of DCPs.