Democracy

In many western countries, trust in politics is low, polarisation is growing and the democratic rule of law is under pressure.... is this a sign that the era of democracy is over? We think not. Democracy is not one encompassing institution but consists of a complex set of formal and informal rules. These institutions can potentially conflict with each other, affecting many facets of our society. Democracy and democratic values therefore deserve our upmost attention and may be in need of renewal.

Our experts look for institutional renewal and consider democracy across the board; not only in the rule of law and government, but also in corporations, organisations and transitions. What is needed for a viable and sustainable society worldwide based on democratic principles and procedures?

Our experts

Politics, the rule of law and citizenship

Corporate democracy

Democracy in transitions

Europa

  • Events related to democracy

    • Book Launch: Democracy鈥檚 Double Helix

      to
      Beatrice de Graaf and Henk Kummeling discuss Lars Behrisch's new book Democracy鈥檚 Double Helix, which explores the historical roots of modern democracy.
    • Lunch debate: Choosing democracy

      to
      Democracy is more than just elections, but elections are an important aspect of our democracy. We are not only choosing a political party, but also the rules that politicians must adhere to. Has democracy itself become the subject of the elections?
    • Film Screening: Wake Up, Serbia!

      to
      The fifth film in the "Re-Imagining the 木瓜福利影视" series is "Wake up, Serbia!" by Ra眉l Gallego Abell谩n.
    • Inaugural lecture Marlies Honingh: Democracy beyond the machinery

      to
      On 6 November 2025 Marlies Honingh will accept her chair as endowed professor in Enacted Democracy at Utrecht 木瓜福利影视.
    RSS