Abstract visual symbolising democratic citizenship through education, political engagement and governance innovation
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Strengthening democratic citizenship: educational, political and governance innovations

At the ECPR joint sessions-workshop from 20.5.-23.5.2025 in Prague, one workshop dealt with the implications of challenges in democracy for democratic citizenship education exploring innovative approaches. This article provides a reflection on four of 16 presentations from Sweden, UK, Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Estonia. L. Kalev provided an overview of the normative and structural…

Monochrome sketch of a diverse group of young people seen from behind, representing democratic disaffection and reflection in the classroom.
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The Democratic Challenge in the Classroom: How to Educate in Times of Distrust?

In the last few years, several international studies have warned of a worrying trend: new generations show a growing disaffection towards democratic systems. This situation reflects a record level of dissatisfaction with democracy in many countries, especially among the young population, which poses an urgent challenge for the education system. Faced with this reality, the…

Digital Citizenship Education
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Let’s Act Now: Reflections from the 2025 Digital Citizenship Education Forum in Strasbourg

On 27–28 May 2025, Strasbourg hosted the first Digital Citizenship Education Forum, a gathering that brought together over 200 people from more than 30 countries. The event was organised by the Council of Europe as part of the European Year of Digital Citizenship Education, and it provided a timely space for experts and stakeholder to…

Two students of diverse backgrounds collaborating, representing the values of democratic school culture.

Schools as Spaces of Democracy: How Participation Contributes to a Democratic School Culture

Participation is a cornerstone of democratic education. However, not every participation process automatically fosters democratic learning or contributes to a democratic school culture. Using the example of the program “Your Vision Schule NRW”, this article explores the conditions necessary for participation processes to strengthen democratic school cultures and contribute to political education. The Participation Program:…

DEMOCRAT logo superimposed on Tallinn's square, embodying democratic education

Unlocking Democratic Education: 5 Highlights from the DEMOCRAT Conference in Tallinn

Day 1: Unveiling the Role of Education in Democratic Citizenship The DEMOCRAT Conference in Tallinn offered a stage for scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to delve into the crucial nexus of education and democracy. Spanning two days, the conference featured enlightening discussions, research presentations, and collaborative sessions aimed at exploring the challenges and opportunities in democratic…