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Dear ,
In a week’s time the Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy is taking place online on Zoom for the first time and we’d like you to participate! My name is Leonie and I’ve been volunteering for Democracy International since May 2020. Over the last months I’ve been helping with the preparations for the forum, which will take place from 21-29 September 2020. While helping out to organise this conference, I realised how much thought and effort goes into such a project. That’s why it’s my honour and privilege to draw your attention to the amazing people who will be presenting and participating this year.
Personally, I am particularly interested in issues related to climate change and how instruments of direct democracy can help protect the environment. That's why I’m looking forward to participating in the workshop on Monday about SIMPOL. Also high on my agenda, is Friday's panel on climate, sustainability and direct democracy. But I'm sure there’s something for everyone in our programme - how about for instance the panel on "Corona Dictatorships"? It’s a panel that I’m proud to have organised and for which we’ll be joined by speakers from all over the world.
Have I piqued your interest? Then register now.
Leonie Derksen
Volunteer, Democracy International
We'll be focusing on four main themes throughout the Forum:
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What can we learn from Switzerland’s example with direct democracy?
Made in Switzerland! Switzerland’s greatest export is not luxury watches, but modern direct democracy. Swiss citizens have a direct say in matters that affect their lives such as military spending, socio-political issues and constitutional reforms. As such, Switzerland is a pioneer of multilevel participatory democracy which should serve as a blueprint for democracy in Europe and around the world. What can we learn from this thriving example of direct democracy and what is on the ballot for the national voting day on 27 September?
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How can democracy activism be the solution to climate change?
Direct Democracy is at the forefront of the fight against climate change with initiatives in France, the UK and Austria recently making waves. Citizens are coming to the realisation that they cannot rely on status quo politics to stop climate change and that direct democracy offers an opportunity to solve one of humankind’s biggest collective challenges.
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What does the future hold for Democracy?
The times are changing, and democracy should change as well! In a constantly globalising world, with information at our fingertips, many people have become disillusioned by the direction politics is taking. Especially the younger generation is being emboldened by the direct democratic atmosphere and it is becoming increasingly clear that the days of technocratic government are coming to an end. The future of democracy should undoubtedly entail a move towards stronger elements of participatory democracy to supplement representative government.
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How do we find solutions for democracies in crisis?
In a world where we are confronted with seemingly overwhelming democratic crises, direct democracy represents a glimmer of hope! In many countries pre-existing crises have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 global pandemic. Through direct democracy, citizens can shield themselves from dictatorial regimes, work together in recovering from Covid-19 and build a better future. Find out how a global alliance of citizens and civil society can help this process.
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Direct democracy is all about participation and that’s why we can’t wait to be joined by guests and experts from around the world in forming a melting-pot of ideas and solutions. Within each of the above-mentioned tracks, a number of workshops and panel discussions will take place. Have a look at our website to find the workshop(s) you’d like to participate in!
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