On 10 May, IMS is co-arranging an international conference in Copenhagen called “Security or Democracy – do we need to make a choice?”

The conference is devoted to discussing democratic challenges in the European Neighborhood and will take an in-depth look at the situation in three countries which have a key role to play in determining the political future in the European Neighborhood: Egypt, Syria and Ukraine.

Democracy activists from these countries will share their first-hand experience on how external partners can best support them in their work to enhance democracy on the ground. They will also provide their assessment on concrete steps that can be taken to support positive developments despite the very challenging circumstances.

Today, the reality in many countries in the European Neighbourhood is bleak. Marred by political instability, corruption, and in some places, violent conflicts, deep challenges persist in terms of human rights, democratic and institutional development, and social cohesion.

The sense of optimism and promise of democracy that accompanied the Arab Spring and Euromaidan revolution in Ukraine has slowly faded, leaving behind disillusionment and a sense of insecurity. Instead of democratic consolidation, the revolutionary upheavals have given rise to political turmoil or resurgent autocracy, which creates a hostile and challenging reality for democracy activists in these countries.

Event programme here

Venue: Kabelhallerne, Refshalevej 325, 1432 Copenhagen.
Date: 10 May 2017
Time: 10:00-18:00

Please registrate your attendance here

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