Democracy Learning Circle

This is a pivotal moment for democracy globally and there is a great need for both innovation and reimagination - as societies globally rethink how to strengthen the social contract between citizens and governments.  Different solutions will be found in different societies, but because democract institutions are under attack in so many places there is a need for both global and local action. At this moment of democratic strain, fragmentation across civic ecosystems, and significant shifts in international cooperation, the Circle will look beyond defending existing institutions to consider the democratic futures philanthropy can help make possible. A guiding question for the Circle could be: How can philanthropy help counter the conditions that deepen polarization and strengthen those that enable democratic participation, trust, and collective action?

This Learning Circle will help members examine why and how philanthropy can strengthen democratic processes, learn from innovations emerging from Latin America and the…