Mr. Abraham Varney, BudgIT Liberia’s Country Lead – at the World Movement for Democracy (WMD) 12th Global Assembly
The recently concluded 12th Assembly of the World Movement for Democracy, themed “Revitalizing Democracy: Reflection, Resilience, and Innovation,” underscored the vital importance of a dynamic and adaptive approach to democratic governance in an era marked by unprecedented challenges. As global democracies grapple with rising authoritarianism, political polarization, and social discontent, the assembly provided a platform for civil society activists, scholars, parliamentarians, thought leaders, journalists, funders and policymakers to reflect on the historical lessons learned, the resilience required to uphold democratic values, and the innovative strategies necessary for future progress.
The Global Assembly holds special historical significance as it coincides with the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s first non-racial elections, a milestone that ended the historic struggle against apartheid, which solidified its position as a beacon of democracy on the African continent. The nation’s journey toward democratic transformation underscores its pivotal role in advocating for human rights and social justice. Key landmarks like Constitutional Hill—home to the Constitutional Court—serve as reminders of the struggles endured and the victories achieved in the fight for equality. Soweto, a hub of activism during the apartheid era, continues to symbolize the youth-led movements that significantly shaped the country’s democratic landscape.
Participating in Global Democracy Conferences such as the World Movement for Democracy (WMD) is crucial for reinforcing democratic values and fostering international cooperation. These events facilitate knowledge exchange, unite diverse stakeholders, and inspire collective action against authoritarianism. Relevant topics at the assembly, such as “Empowering Youth for Democratic Transformation” and “Innovations for Better Citizen Engagement,” addressed the empowerment of young people and the integration of technology in democratic processes—crucial factors in sustaining democracy in an ever-evolving global context.
The call for revitalization resonates as a clarion call for all stakeholders to unite in safeguarding democracy as a living, evolving entity that must adapt to meet the needs of contemporary society. By uniting advocates worldwide, the Global Assembly not only honored South Africa’s democratic legacy but deepened global solidarity, fostering collaboration to advance democracy and human rights globally.