Beyond the Ballot: Europe's Democratic Journey

New Lecture Series

Beyond the Ballot: Europe's Democratic Journey 

Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges, successes, and prospects of democracy in contemporary Europe. This speaker series brings together leading experts, scholars, and policymakers to delve into the future of democracy in the European Union, its member states, and the neighborhood.
From the challenges posed by populism and nationalism to the implications of EU integration on national democracies, each session will dissect key issues shaping the EU's democratic framework. Participants will gain insights into topics such as:
  • The impact of EU policies and regulations on democratic processes in member states.
  • Struggles for democratic accountability and transparency within EU institutions.
  • The role of civil society and grassroots movements in shaping EU democracy.
  • How EU member states are adapting to global geopolitical shifts and their implications for democratic values.
This series offers a critical examination of the strengths and vulnerabilities of democracy within the EU and Europe more broadly.
The series is designed for students, academics, policymakers, and citizens interested in European affairs.  
 
FALL 2024
 
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2024 @ 12:30-1:30 PM
Voices of Concern: How are Europe’s youth expressing their dissatisfaction with the state of democracy? 
 
Hybrid Format
Registration link for virtual participation: HERE
In Person: 4217 Posvar Hall 
 

As the European Union faces complex challenges, from rising populism to economic uncertainty, the role of youth in shaping its future has never been more critical. This panel brings together experts to explore how the EU can better engage its youth in democratic processes. We will examine current participation trends, the barriers young people face in political involvement, and innovative approaches to fostering civic engagement across diverse communities.

Join us to discuss the power of youth as changemakers and their influence on the future of democracy in the EU.

 
Moderator:  Erica Edwards, University of Pittsburgh
 
Panelists: 
Albena Azmanova, University of Kent
James Sloam, Royal Holloway, University of London 

 

RECORDED SESSIONS: 

 

Europe’s Youth Speak on Democracy

How are Europe’s youth expressing their dissatisfaction with the state of democracy? Explore this timely question with us! This panel discussion will delve into the impactful roles young Europeans play amidst political upheaval and economic challenges. Join moderator Erica Edwards and distinguished panelists Albena Azmanova (University of Kent) and James Sloam (Royal Holloway, University of London) as we unpack current trends in youth participation, barriers to political involvement, and new strategies to boost civic engagement. Don’t miss this dynamic conversation on shaping the democratic future of Europe.

Moderator:

  • Erica Edwards, University of Pittsburgh Erica Edwards, University of Pittsburgh 

Panelists:

  • Albena Azmanova, University of Kent
  • James Sloam, Royal Holloway, University of London
Beyond the Ballot - What do the 2024 European elections tell us about democracy today?

Join us as we dive into the results of the 2024 European Parliamentary, British, and French Elections with our expert panel. Discover what these outcomes reveal about the current state of democracy in Europe.

Moderators:

-Erica Edwards, University of Pittsburgh

-Jae-Jae Spoon, University of Pittsburgh

Panelists:

-Tim Bale, Queen Mary University of London

-Diane Bolet, University of Essex

-Simon Hix, European University Institute

Democratizing the EU: Is there a need for institutional reform?

Event was on October 22, 2024. Dive into the history of EU democracy, from the first direct EP elections in 1979 through successive Treaty reforms, and explore the ongoing challenges in enhancing the EU's democratic legitimacy. Engage with our expert panelists, including Manuel Müller from the Finnish Institute of International Affairs and Christine Neuhold, Professor at Maastricht University, as we consider ways to address both real and perceived democratic deficits in the EU.

Moderator:

  • Erica Edwards, University of Pittsburgh

Panelists:

  • Manuel Müller, Finnish Institute of International Affairs
  • Christine Neuhold, Maastricht University