Kicking off the Geneva Democracy Dialogues
The event took place against the backdrop of a global “mega election year” and on the heels of the European elections. The theme of this first dialogue was: How can Narratives help Revitalise Democracy in Europe?
This 2-hour Dialogue held with 50 participants from diplomatic missions, civil society and international organizations, under the Chatham House Rule, sought to increase understanding of the power of narratives on democracy.
One of the key message for today’s dialogue that we want to send is: Democracy is not a given, it is something we must actively fight for if we want to preserve it. 2024 is a critical year to fight against Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference. It poses a major threat to liberal democracies, which rely on free and open information. If information is manipulated, our society and the way we engage in public debate cannot work. Ambassador Thomas Wagner, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation
2024 a mega election year with 60 elections around the world. Two billion people - 50% of the adult population of the world - is asked to cast a vote, including over 400 million Europeans for the European Parliament elections in early June.
"Narratives are more than just stories: They are the threads that weave together our collective identity. They have the power to enhance civic engagement. They are the most potent weapon to combatting disinformation, and they reflect our diversity. I call on each of you to harness the power of narratives to defend and revitalize our democracy. Let us tell stories that inspire, that unite, and that propel us toward a brighter, more democratic future for all of Europe." Ignacio Packer, Executive Director at Caux Initiatives of Change
The Geneva Democracy Dialogues are designed to facilitate open, inclusive, and informed discussions on challenges for democracy, foster collaboration and innovation, and generate actionable recommendations. They are a part of wider programme of Caux Initiatives of Change Foundation on Revitalizing Democracy Across Europe and the Wider World including the upcoming Caux Forum on 15-19 July in Caux, Switzerland.
The full programme of the event can be found here:
