By Nneka Nwogwugwu
The World Forum for Democracy 2025 invites innovative initiatives worldwide to submit expressions of interest to enhance democracy and contribute to sustainable peace. The platform brings together policymakers, activists, and experts to debate solutions to key democratic challenges.
The forum focuses on reviving democracy amid growing dissatisfaction and erosion of trust in institutions. Key challenges include:
– Social and Economic Inequality: Citizens feeling ignored leads to declining civic engagement and vulnerability to authoritarianism.
– Technological Shifts: Digital technologies and AI manipulate public debate, foster polarization, and amplify disinformation.
– Importance of Journalism, Arts and Culture: These sectors support democracy by promoting pluralism and public engagement but are often suppressed by authoritarian regimes.
– Youth Participation: Enhancing young people’s participation and critical thinking skills is crucial for preserving democratic freedoms.
World Forum for Democracy 2025 aims to achieve the following:
– Debate solutions: Bring together policymakers, activists, and experts to discuss innovative approaches to democratic challenges.
– Highlight democracy innovations*: Showcase grassroots initiatives that can be transferred to a systemic level, strengthening democratic societies.
– Foster Collaboration: Encourage dialogue and cooperation among diverse stakeholders to shape more inclusive and participatory democracies.
The program is open to public and private organizations worldwide, and the benefits include an invitation to present at the forum in Strasbourg, France. Travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by the Council of Europe if required
How to apply
You must apply by May 17, 2025. Click HERE to begin the process
The World Forum for Democracy 2025 calls for global innovative initiatives to foster democracy and sustainable peace.
It gathers policymakers, activists, and experts to discuss solutions to democratic challenges.
Key issues include social and economic inequality, the digital manipulation of public dialogue through technology, the suppression of journalism, arts, and culture, and the necessity of enhancing youth participation in democracy.
The forum aims to debate solutions, highlight democracy innovations, and foster collaboration among stakeholders for more inclusive democracies.
Open to public and private organizations worldwide, selected initiatives have the opportunity to present in Strasbourg, France, with travel expenses covered by the Council of Europe.
Applications are due by May 17, 2025, and should focus on new approaches to democratic enhancement and engaging marginalized communities.
