Alumni panel examines democracy in crisis and renewal

As part of the Hertie School’s State of Democracy series, a distinguished panel of alumni gathered online to discuss the complex challenges and emerging opportunities for democracy worldwide. The event was moderated by Ximena Docarmo (MPP 2024), Head of Learning and Co-Director of the Accelerator at Apolitical Foundation, and brought together perspectives from across the globe to explore critical issues such as democratic erosion, the transformative power of technology, and the essential role of civic engagement.

A global perspective on democracy

Opening the discussion, Nena Grceva, Director of Alumni Affairs, highlighted the importance of integrating alumni voices into the Hertie School’s broader efforts to address the global state of democracy. She noted that this series reflects the institution’s commitment to fostering dialogue on key governance challenges.

The five alumni panellists represented a diverse range of geographies and professional fields:

• Mark Dempsey (EMPA 2021), Senior EU Advocacy Officer at ARTICLE 19, Brussels
• Wiebke Dorfs (MIA 2022), Chief of Staff and Policy Advisor for Member of German Bundestag Armand Zorn (SPD)
• Rukaiya el-Rufai (MPP 2008), Special Advisor to the President of Nigeria on National Economic Council and Climate Change
• Julieta Mejía Ibáñez (MPP 2010), Member of Mexican Congress
• Afanwi Niba (EMPA 2018), Project Director at GIZ, Promoting the Economic and Social Participation of Internally Displaced Persons in Cameroon

Personal reflections and regional challenges to democracy

The panellists began by reflecting on their experiences at the Hertie School, highlighting its practical learning opportunities, diverse student body, and strong sense of community. They then discussed the challenges facing democracy in their countries and regions. In Cameroon, Afanwi described how the dominance of the executive branch, as well as the internal displacement of over 1 million people, creates significant barriers to people’s involvement in the democratic processes. Rukaiya noted Nigeria’s struggles with polarisation, militancy and gender inequality, but also pointed to progress in electoral transparency and the resilience of its 20-year-old democracy. Julieta highlighted Latin America’s declining democratic index, driven by a sharp economic inequality, corruption and the rise of populism, while also stressing the need for stronger institutions and leadership.

As an example of the erosion of democratic institutions at the EU level, Mark pointed to the lack of widespread support for the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for alleged war crimes in Gaza. He stressed that the ongoing war in Gaza has revealed a consistent pattern of undermining democratic norms in Europe and the West, leading to a systematic weakening of international institutions and the global legal order. In Germany, Wiebke outlined growing threats to its so far resilient democracy, including societal polarisation, rising extremist parties, and the spread of misinformation. Together, the panellists underscored the urgency of protecting democratic values around the world by strengthening institutions, accountability and inclusive governance.

Technology: Threat or tool for democratic strengthening?

The conversation also explored the benefits and risks of technology. On the one hand, biometric systems in Nigeria were commended for enhancing electoral transparency. On the other, the misuse of technologies such as generative AI and surveillance tools was flagged as a growing threat to civil liberties. The European Union’s regulatory efforts, including the Digital Services Act, were discussed as a model for safeguarding media independence, though the speakers voiced concerns about potential misuse by authoritarian actors.

Civic engagement: A pillar of resilient democracies

The panellists emphasised the indispensable role of civil society in resisting democratic backsliding. From grassroots movements in Cameroon and Nigeria amplifying marginalised voices to advocacy efforts in Mexico holding populist leaders accountable, civic engagement was lauded as a cornerstone for democratic renewal. The need for inclusive participation – especially among underrepresented groups – was highlighted as critical to fostering trust and legitimacy in governance.

Pathways for renewal

Despite acknowledging the challenges, the panellists remained optimistic about democracy’s future. Cross-sectoral collaboration and investments in education were identified as vital for tackling issues such as inequality, climate change, and digital governance. Panellists also underscored the importance of media literacy and transparency to counter misinformation and empower informed citizenry.

This event reaffirmed the Hertie School’s dedication to facilitating global dialogue on governance and democracy. As the State of Democracy series continues, it promises to deepen the discussion on how to strengthen democratic systems in an evolving world.

Views expressed by the panellists may not necessarily reflect the views and values of the Hertie School, or any other institutions they may be affiliated with.

Watch the full panel discussion