European Democracy at a Crossroads
As democracy practitioners and advocates from around the world gather in Brussels for Democracy R&D 2025 conference, we open with a question that speaks directly to European political leadership:
Where is European democracy headed — and what role will you play in shaping its future?
In a time of democratic strain, rising polarisation, and declining trust in institutions, the impetus for renewal is real.
Citizens are demanding more voice, more transparency, and more meaningful engagement.
Whether you are policymaker, politician or democracy practitioner, your response matters.
This high-level pre-conference brings together diverse actors engaged with democracy to assess where we stand now — and to chart the ways forward from here.
