EPRS-EUI-IPOL online roundtable: In defence of democracy

The challenge today for democracies in Europe and beyond is how to become more open and more resilient. While the unique constitutional arrangement of the European Union adds a level of complexity, the need for effective climate action and a just energy as well as a digital transition have also raised the bar for better governance in the EU political system.

Forging an effective response will require innovation to reengage with the European electorate and consolidation to strengthen democratic institutions. This policy roundtable brings together politicians, policymakers, academics, and policy analysts to set an agenda for positive action. Speakers from across Europe, as well as, from across the political spectrum will come together to assess the way forward centred around 4 main themes:

• Innovating democracy: Citizens’ participation in the EU system after the Conference on the Future of Europe
• Consolidating democracy: Reform of the electoral system for the European Parliament and its right to initiate legislation
• Protecting democracy: How to defend and advance the rule of law within the European Union?
• Protecting democracy: How to safeguard rational political debate from disinformation, whilst respecting free speech?