Athens Democracy Forum

What is truth? The ancient question has returned with an alarming urgency as artificial intelligence, fake news, conspiracy theorists, unscrupulous politicians and authoritarian government systematically undermine fact, accuracy, science, honesty and respectful debate. The notion of “self-evident truths” cited by the authors of the American Declaration of Independence has been abused and sullied, leaving Truth a commodity to be manipulated and bartered by partisan media, shameless politicians and even religious leaders. An inevitable result is that trust in our institutions is at an all-time low. The challenges will be on full display this year as more than 50 countries head to the polls for national elections.

But all is not lost. People the world over are yearning to share in a common set of goals. Differing visions of reality may be at odds with one another, but there are also bold leaders and thinkers making space for opposing views, deliberation and unconventional thinking. Citizen’s groups, innovative governments, enterprising young people and spirited academics are experimenting with new forms of expression that could help heal democracy from the inside. Can trust be restored? Could this be our moment of truth?

The Athens Democracy Forum will convene in the Greek capital, October 1-3, to advance concrete solutions and programs. As in recent years, the event will kick off with a "State of Democracy" session, and topics over the following days will be divided under 3 main pillars: regional case studies, “rethinking” key issues, and practical and innovative new tools. We'll also present the 2nd annual Kofi Annan NextGen Prize (with Kofi Annan Foundation) to a young advocate, as well as the next inductees into the Democratic Innovators Politicians' Hall of Fame (with Apolitical Foundation).