The 11th annual Human Forum, themed Democracy in Danger! took place from November 19 to 21, 2024, in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia. Organized by the civic platform “Nie v našom meste” in collaboration with the Institute for Democracy at Matej Bel University, this internationally recognized event continues its mission of fostering dialogue on democracy, human rights, and civil society.

This year’s forum arrived at a critical moment, as democracies worldwide face increasing threats from polarization, populism, and rising authoritarian tendencies. Over the course of three days, participants from academia, civic organizations, government, and international institutions engaged in dynamic discussions, practical workshops, and cultural programs designed to address these pressing challenges.

Key Themes and Program Highlights

Bottom-up Democracy

The forum’s opening day, set in the historic Cikker Hall of Banská Bystrica, emphasized the pivotal role of grassroots activism in maintaining democratic systems. Panelists examined how local civic communities could counter extremism, nationalism, racism, and other forms of intolerance. Discussions also focused on the significance of fostering sustainable democratic practices at the local level.

Speakers of the first day included among others also Tea Jaliashvili, First Deputy Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights – Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Vladimír Šucha – Head of Representation of the European Commission in the Slovak Republic, Monika Uhlerová – President of the Confederation of Trade Unions, Grigory Mesezhnikov, political scientist, Filip Vagač, Platform for Democracy, Barbara Sadowska, Barka Foundation, Poland, Simona-Alexandra Ionescu-Filip, Anais Association, Romania or Catherine Fieschi, author and academic, European University Institute, Italy.

Science, Research, and Civil Society
On day two, sessions delved into how academic research can inform and strengthen civil society’s response to challenges such as economic inequality and regional disparities, but also polarized politics and populism.

Key sessions include these research-oriented topics:

“The Geography of Discontent: How Economic Inequality Fuels Democratic Discontent in Europe”, featuring: Erik Jones, Director of the Robert Schuman Centre, European University Institute, Oksana Antonenko, European University Institute and Kamila Borseková, Matej Bel University, led by Katarína Vitálišová, Matej Bel University.

“Fragmented Loyalties and Polarized Politics: Insights from Slovakia and Beyond”, with: Petra Alderman, University of Birmingham, Bogdan Ianosev, Institute for Democracy at Matej Bel University, Felix Butzlaff, Central European University, Vienna and Jozef Michal Mintál, Matej Bel University.

Education for Democracy

The final day focused on education’s role in promoting democratic values. Panels and workshops explored how collaboration between schools, NGOs, and governments can foster tolerance and counteract indoctrination. Topics also included strategies for integrating democratic principles into the curriculum and the potential to lower Slovakia’s voting age.

Notable speakers include Ábel Ravasz, Adviser to the Minister of Education, Petra Jankovská, Ministry of Education of the Slovak Republic, Tina Gažovičová, Member of the National Assembly, Maroš Chmelík, Director of the Center for Community Organizing and others.

A Unique Forum for Dialogue and Collaboration

Since its inception in 2014, the Human Forum has served as a platform for building partnerships across local, regional, and international democratic communities. Each year, the event brings together a diverse array of participants, from grassroots activists to high-level officials, creating a space for open dialogue and collaboration.

This year’s edition included:

• Interactive discussions on civil society’s role in democracy, moderated by experts such as Ján Orlovský and Pavol Demeš
• A festive evening featuring the HUMAN FORUM Award Ceremony, honoring significant contributions to democracy and human rights
• Cultural programme, including the “Demo 21” exhibition curated by Gabriela Bírošová, and an ecumenical service promoting interfaith dialogue.

Additionally, the forum addressed current threats to civil society, including disinformation campaigns and efforts to undermine NGOs. Sessions featured practical tools for activists, educators, and community leaders to strengthen resilience against these challenges.

The Human Forum 2024 was more than a conference—it was a call to action for anyone committed to safeguarding democracy and human rights. This year’s event delivered an inspiring mix of intellectual debate, practical solutions, and opportunities for networking and collaboration.

Participants had an opportunity to:

Engage with thought leaders and practitioners from across Europe.

Gain actionable insights into building resilient democratic communities.

Participate in workshops tailored to students, educators, civic leaders, and policymakers.

Experience a rich cultural program that celebrates the intersection of art and activism.

For the full program and additional information, visit www.humanforum.sk. And save the date for Human Forum 2025, 18.11. – 20.11.2025.