Brussels Democracy Dialogue 2025: Conference Report

Democracies face a double challenge: citizens must engage and trust in democratic processes, while defenders of democracy need the courage and strategy to counter populists and anti-democratic forces. At the Brussels Democracy Dialogue 2025, experts from politics, science, and civil society discussed ways to strengthen European democracies and developed four key recommendations.

1. Strategic defence of democracy: Progressive forces should unite, use all constitutional instruments, and create emotionally resonant narratives to reconnect with citizens.

2. Deliver results within a progressive vision: Address citizens’ economic and social demands—such as housing, healthcare, and fair work conditions—while embedding policies in a 21st-century progressive project.

3. Counter disinformation and foreign interference: The EU must regulate large online platforms, invest in digital infrastructure, and boost media literacy and independent journalism.

4. Offer a positive democratic vision: Revitalise civic engagement, invest in education, promote economic and workplace democracy, and develop inclusive patriotism to strengthen European democratic legitimacy.

By combining these strategies, Europe can build resilient, responsive democracies that actively engage citizens and stand firm against anti-democratic pressures.