Inspired by the Northern European tradition of democracy festivals, DEMOCRACY ALIVE is a 3-day celebration of European democracy that brings together citizens, decision-makers, organised civil society, businesses and influencers. Our mission is to encourage civic engagement, as well as increase the overall interest in European democracy by organising a large-scale event taking place only a few weeks before the European Elections in May 2019.
It is a challenging time for European democracy, with Brexit, rising far-right populism and anti-democratic tendencies. This is why it is time to come together and prove that European democracy reaches beyond the corridors of Brussels and that our common European identity is relevant to every single European in their own daily lives.
In order to bridge the gaps between us citizens and those that represent us, and to bring trust and optimism back to the European project, we want to create a space where (1) citizens, (2) civil society, (3) business and (4) our elected representatives can come together and engage in real dialogue on the important issues that matter.
We envision DEMOCRACY ALIVE as an open space where citizens and stakeholders, irrespective of their backgrounds and representations, will be able to hold their own events, debates, discussions, meetings, gigs, book readings, song contests, ping pong tournaments, silent disco`s - you name it. We are essentially facilitating a space for thousands of people to participate and communicate their views on democracy and Europe.
DEMOCRACY ALIVE will be a non-partisan arena for you to share your message and your vision for Europe. Attendance will be free of charge to individuals and does not require registration.
DEMOCRACY ALIVE will take place 11-13 April 2019 on the beautiful island of Texel. This location was purposely chosen as it brings us together in a non-traditional setting far outside the Brussels bubble. Texel is also easily accessible and has all the elements needed for a successful event, including local experience with large-scale events, a wide range of accommodation options, as well as a dedicated local community who is excited to welcome us all to their home.
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