What is democracy, and how does it matter? | 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.
24/11/2026, 16:00-17:00 (CET)
What is democracy, and how does it matter?
In 1863, Abraham Lincoln gave a concise definition of the democratic ideal: “government of the people, by the people, for the people”. But how does this ideal square with life under capitalism? And where in society is democracy present or absent, and how can it be strengthened?
Speaker: Alexander Gallas (Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences)
Chair: Michael Keaney (Metropolia University of Applied Sciences Helsinki)
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.