democracy
I argue: Digital inclusion is key to democratic participation
“Digital inclusion is vital for enabling civic engagement and strengthening democracy. When citizens cannot navigate digital platforms, their ability to influence policies or shape communities is diminished,” writes Maja Brynteson of Nordregio in ELM’s “I argue” series.
Democracy at the crossroads: dialogue or defence?
With polarisation on the rise, is meaningful dialogue across divides still possible? Political scientist Richard Gebhardt and psychologist Marina Weisband explore the issue from a German perspective.
Building democracy: How to prepare citizens for effective participation
“We see a danger of democracy collapsing, and the need for a new framework for adult civic learning to respond to it,” say Tetyana Hoggan-Kloubert and Chad Hoggan, authors of the new book Learning for Democracy: A Framework for Adult Civic Learning.
Fostering civic engagement: Citizens Xelerator in Portugal
As Portugal faces declining support for adult education, initiatives like Citizens Xelerator are more crucial than ever. In Lisbon, women from the association Grandma Came to Work and Citizens Xelerator explored embroidery while developing civic skills and social connections.
Teaching media literacy in Palestine: Supporting civil society and democracy
Teaching fact-checking and digital safety is important. The media literacy course organized by Bethlehem University and the Kvs Foundation goes further, fostering active citizenship and strengthening democracy in Palestine. Teacher Tamara Abu Laban and student Natali Nasser Abuayyash share their experiences.
EDITORIAL The stronger adult education, the stronger democracy
In her editorial on the theme of Adult Education and Democracy, ELM Editorial Board member Dina Soeiro emphasises how adult learning—through critical thinking, media literacy and civic engagement—empowers citizens to shape their communities and strengthen democracy.
What role can companies play in civic education?
As political trust wanes and populism rises, there are calls for Europe’s corporate sector to step up. The Civic Scouts at Work programme empowers employees to promote democracy through civic education in corporate training. Can corporate social responsibility help adult learners cope with policy changes in Europe?
Empowering people with disabilities in politics
A German initiative offers citizenship education to people with disabilities, fostering their active participation in political life. “I've realised what rights I have and that my opinion counts,” says one student.
Empowering peace in the Balkans: Can adult education pave the way?
In the heart of the Balkans, the echoes of the Yugoslav Wars continue to reverberate through the lives of its inhabitants. As the scars of the conflict persist and peacebuilding attempts have often proved unsuccessful, adult education could be a beacon of hope in the region.
How to cultivate the Finnish learning concept of ‘sivistys’
In Finland, 2024 marks the year of 'sivistys', a wide-ranging concept that encompasses education, a broad base of knowledge, and much more. We ask two of Finland’s leading thinkers, Kristiina Brunila and Sixten Korkman, to elaborate.
