Young people are increasingly at the forefront of the struggle for democracy and better governance – from resisting authoritarian regimes in digital spaces and leading civic protests to creating new forms of civic engagement. This year’s conference will feature several discussions dedicated to Generation Z, its role in democratic movements, and the challenges young people face in different parts of the world.
What does resistance look like in an era of digital surveillance? Organized in cooperation with the Human Rights Foundation, this discussion will examine how young people are responding to growing censorship and monitoring by authoritarian regimes. Speakers will explore emerging forms of nonviolent resistance that rely on memes, art, and digital tools to circumvent state control. The discussion will also address the technologies employed by repressive governments and why defending freedom of expression has become an increasingly global challenge.
Many youth-led protest movements have demonstrated an extraordinary capacity to mobilize societies, yet sustaining momentum after the protests end remains a major challenge. Held in cooperation with People in Need and the European Partnership for Democracy, this panel will focus on what happens after major waves of civic mobilization subside. Drawing on experiences from Latin America, North Africa, and Central Asia, speakers will discuss how young activists can continue advancing democratic change in the face of repression, shrinking civic space, and activist fatigue, as well as what forms of international support are needed to sustain their long-term engagement.
With more than half of Iran’s population under the age of 30, young people have become one of the key driving forces behind social and political change in the country. This panel will explore the role of young Iranians in the pro-democracy movement, their civic activism, and the everyday challenges they face under state repression. Participants will discuss why the younger generation is widely regarded as a crucial force for Iran’s future democratic transformation.
The future of democracy depends not only on active citizens but also on the emergence of a new generation of democratic leaders. Organized in cooperation with the Community of Democracies, this panel will examine how future leaders can be nurtured and supported. The discussion will focus on the importance of mentorship, intergenerational cooperation, and leading by example at a time of growing polarization and uncertainty. Participants will consider whether today’s political, civic, and intellectual leaders are doing enough to create opportunities for younger generations and how democratic resilience can be strengthened across Central and Eastern Europe.
