Inclusive democracy challenged? | U!REKA online-lecture series: Democracy under threat
Democracy is one of the ‘core values’ of the European Union. Together with the rule of law and human rights, it forms the normative basis for open, inclusive and just societies committed to tolerance, solidarity and non-discrimination. However, scholars and commentators have been speaking about a ‘crisis of democracy’ for decades, and it appears that this crisis has magnified in the last years.
In our online lecture series, we analyse the present moment and discuss what conditions it – in economic, political, socio-cultural, technological and ecological terms. And in so doing, we explore what democracy is, and what it could be, how it is threatened and why and what can be done to defend and extend it in a sustainable way.
22/02/2027, 16:00-17:00 (CET)
Inclusive democracy challenged?
At its best, democracy embraces diversity, combats discrimination, and fosters equality and social inclusion. In recent years, however, these principles have been increasingly challenged by anti-democratic and authoritarian voices. How do higher education institutions within U!REKA European University Alliance respond to this backlash? How are diversity and minority rights addressed, what challenges are currently faced, and which strategies have been developed or need to be developed to safeguard the idea and practice of democratic inclusion?
Panellists: Minna-Kristiina Ruokonen-Engler in conversation with Vera Jost (both Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences) and Karen Van Bastelaere (HOGENT University of Applied Sciences)
Chair: Alexander Gallas (Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences)
Target Group
Lectures are open to everyone interested in questions of democracy and especially to all members of U!REKA universities including students and life-long learners.
Registration
is required – please click here. The online links will be provided by email together with the confirmation of the registration.