This concluding chapter synthesises perspectives from 28 interviews with diverse voices, including academics, intellectuals, artists, journalists, human rights activists, and political actors who reflect on the challenges and prospects of liberal democracy in times of democratic backsliding, inequality, and disconnection between institutions and citizens. The interviewees articulate diverse but overlapping perspectives on dissensus, while advancing citizen-centred recommendations to strengthen liberal democracy and the rule of law. They propose practical measures to strengthen democracy, including comprehensive civic education, inclusive participatory mechanisms, effective and transparent governance, and renewed social protections. Attention is also given to challenges such as disinformation, polarisation, climate inaction, and the erosion of judicial independence and press freedom. Within the European Union, proposals call for stronger citizen engagement, institutional reform, and enhanced accountability. Overall, these voices underscore that democracy is not static but an evolving practice requiring active defence, adaptation, nurturing, and renewal. Empowering citizens through everyday, practical, and implementable measures is identified as the foundation for resilient, inclusive, and participatory democracy.

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Looking Forward. A Range of Democratic Voices on Ways to Empower Citizens

  • Andrew Bradley

摘要

This concluding chapter synthesises perspectives from 28 interviews with diverse voices, including academics, intellectuals, artists, journalists, human rights activists, and political actors who reflect on the challenges and prospects of liberal democracy in times of democratic backsliding, inequality, and disconnection between institutions and citizens. The interviewees articulate diverse but overlapping perspectives on dissensus, while advancing citizen-centred recommendations to strengthen liberal democracy and the rule of law. They propose practical measures to strengthen democracy, including comprehensive civic education, inclusive participatory mechanisms, effective and transparent governance, and renewed social protections. Attention is also given to challenges such as disinformation, polarisation, climate inaction, and the erosion of judicial independence and press freedom. Within the European Union, proposals call for stronger citizen engagement, institutional reform, and enhanced accountability. Overall, these voices underscore that democracy is not static but an evolving practice requiring active defence, adaptation, nurturing, and renewal. Empowering citizens through everyday, practical, and implementable measures is identified as the foundation for resilient, inclusive, and participatory democracy.