Research | Understanding the links between Multilateralism and Democracy

How can we address the fraying link between democracy and the multilateral system? Our new research project, in collaboration with the Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy, seeks to explore how democratic, ethical, and inclusive leadership is essential to solving global challenges.

Multilateral action, as well as international cooperation and dialogue, are hampered by growing polarization, assertive nationalist agendas, and strong ideological divides, which are particularly marked around issues of democracy. A significant erosion of the shared international normative framework bears on the multilateral system.

Between 2024 and 2025, the Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy and the Kofi Annan Foundation are collaborating on a two-year project to further a common understanding – through open dialogue, exchanges of good practices from all continents, training and advocacy – of how democratic, ethical and inclusive leadership is essential to solving global challenges.

As part of the project, a series of expert thematic roundtables will be organised in liaison with multilateral actors on the role of democracy in responding to issues of global concern. The discussions, which will take place primarily in Geneva, Switzerland – home of almost 40 international organisations, will convene subject matter experts and build bridges based on research and dialogue. Some of the discussions will be held in other multilateral hubs around the world, such as New York, Vienna, Nairobi, or Brussels.

Drawing on the expertise of its researchers, the Albert Hirschman Centre on Democracy will produce an issue brief for each roundtable that provides the starting point for the discussions, as well as a roundtable outcome document.

Roundtables in 2024

In 2024, we will organise thematic roundtables on the following themes:

• Theme 1: Democracy and Climate (April 2024)
  The Relationship between Climate Change and Democracy Governance  – Roundtable Summary 
• Theme 2: Technology and Democracy (Date to be announced)
• Theme 3: Democracy and Human Rights (Date to be announced)

The issue brief, ‘Understanding the links between multilateralism and democracy to tackle global challenges more effectively,’ will soon be available on this page, along with each Roundtables’ outcome document.

Expected Outcomes

• An increase in evidence-based understanding of the links between multilateralism and democracy and how strong accountability mechanisms and public trust at the national level can increase the effectiveness of action at the global level.

• A global community of aspiring young political leaders with a deepened understanding of ethical and democratic leadership standards; increased awareness of the complex challenges that leaders face today; and strengthened skills and networks to respond to such challenges, including through the multilateral system.

• Heightened public interest in the interaction between democracy and multilateralism, and the need to take effective, joint action to respond to the retreat of democracy and multilateralism.