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EDITORIAL |
A MATTER OF RESPONSIBILITY |
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Dear ,
One important question has been on my mind. It has stayed with me ever since my journey through the United States where I spent two weeks in the "swing states" during the presidential elections. On this election observation tour, it became very clear to me just how deep the divisions in American society run—and what happens when political factions redefine terms like democracy or freedom to serve their own agendas.
My pressing question is: Why did we allow this reinterpretation to happen in the first place?
My answer to this question is still a preliminary one: Too often, we have failed to speak confidently and clearly about the advantages of democracy. We have allowed others to take control of the narrative because we have been too caught up in the details of day-to-day political debates, rather than focusing on the core principles.
It is Donald Trump’s reelection that has made me reflect so deeply, not only because of its immediate consequences but also because it reflects a global trend: the rise of right-wing populist forces in democracies around the world.
Populists promote a worldview where not everyone is considered equal or of equal worth. They demand more rights for themselves and fewer freedoms for others. They stand for intolerance and restrictions, for exclusive political access rather than integration. And they offer seemingly simple solutions to complex problems—solutions that ultimately serve only their own interests.
Democracy, as I understand it and as Democracy International advocates for, is inclusive: it considers and integrates all people, regardless of their origin, religion, gender, or life circumstances. Democracy is tolerant: it tolerates differing opinions, engages with them, and seeks compromises that work for everyone. Democracy is participatory: it demands and thrives on the involvement of all—and will not settle for less. And democracy is solution-oriented: it seeks answers that address the complexity of problems rather than merely advancing a single political agenda.
Let's take action together—for a democracy that is inclusive, tolerant, and just. Now, more than ever, we as democracy supporters are needed. Together, let's talk about these values, inspire others, and show why democracy is everyone’s responsibility. |
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Yours sincerely,
Executive Director, Democracy International e.V |
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P.S.: Your support makes all the difference. Together, we can ensure that democracy and human rights take centre stage once again. Your donation helps us advance critical projects and reach more people. Thank you so much! |
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.png "YOUTH DEMOCRACY HANDBOOK. Out now, for young people by young people")
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EVENTS (FIND MORE EVENTS HERE) |
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24. JANUARY 2025, BERLIN |
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Building Bridges event, Building Bridges commemorates the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall through town-twinnings between 4 European cities. The event focuses on the physical and symbolic walls of past and present Europe.
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4-6. FEBRUARY 2025, LAS PALMAS DE GRAN CANARIA |
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Consul Conference 2025, ConsulCon25 brings together experts and practitioners in the field of (digital) citizen participation to exchange experiences, discuss best practices, and explore new developments in the field.
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STORIES |
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Five positive lessons from the US elections |
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Here we go again. Donald Trump has won the US presidential election, and I’m sure by now you’ve already read an analysis or two about all the things that went wrong. Let's talk about positive lessons. |
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.png "Image of the group at the US Briefing Tour, including Democracy International team members")
You and me (and local democracy) against the world |
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Global news on local democracy: local American elections, Bogota and Mumbai advances and a democracy capital switch. |
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Can we predict what future European Citizens’ Initiatives will be? |
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There is no shortage of ideas for things that can improve in the EU. And who knows, they might just be an ECI you can sign in the future. |
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A local coalition to tear the fascists down? |
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No province or city can beat the far-right alone. Californians can’t beat the Trump administration all by ourselves. We need allies. A whole wide world of them. |
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PODCAST: RULES OF THE GAME |
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EPISODE 45: DOUBLE PROPORTIONALITY WITH FRIEDRICH PUKELSHEIM
The podcast 'Rules of the Game – Discussing Democratic Institutions' by political economist Stephan Kyburz touches Direct Democracy news in a global context. Through a partnership between ‘Rules of the Game’ and Democracy International, we want to support the podcast and give it a platform to grow. |
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SWISSINFO VOICES |
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How much protest should a democratic state accept? |
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Roadblocks, sit-ins and attacks on artworks have raised questions about the limits of legitimate action. |
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How do you tackle fake news and disinformation? |
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What strategies are used to combat fake news in your country? Share with us. |
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IMPRINT
Tel: +49 (0) 221 669 66 50
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