Challenges to Democracy

Join us for a thought-provoking panel exploring the current state of democracy around the world—and what’s at stake. Our expert speakers will share diverse perspectives on the pressures facing democratic systems today, from historical shifts to current geopolitical tensions.

• Eri Bertsou, political scientist, will open with an academic perspective: What is democracy? How has it evolved, and what does that evolution tell us about today's challenges?

• Velina Tchakarova, geopolitical strategist, will examine the role of democracy in Europe and Asia, and how it affects global security.

• Matt Johnson, author and commentator, will address the challenges democracy faces in the United States today.

The discussion will culminate in a global panel conversation moderated by Diane Bailey, bringing these regional insights together to examine how leadership in key states is shaping the future—and what individuals and institutions can do to respond.

We’ll close with remarks by Urs Schenker, President of the Harvard Club of Switzerland and partner at Walder Wyss.

Whether you're passionate about politics, policy, or global affairs, this event offers fresh insights and actionable ideas for navigating one of the most pressing issues of our time.