REWIRING DEMOCRACY – RECONNECTING CITIZENS AND DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTIONS IN THE INFORMATION AGE

The 2013 World Forum for Democracy on “Rewiring democracy – reconnecting citizens and democratic institutions in the information age” was held in Strasbourg on 23-29 November 2013. This second edition explored participatory initiatives and innovative ideas which have the ambition to increase institutions’ transparency and foster more deliberation and citizen influence on decision-making.

This Forum offered an occasion for the Schools of Political Studies to explore issues with prominent European and international personalities. Just as importantly, the Forum provided ample opportunity for the participants of the 19 Schools of Political Studies to meet each other, learn from each other and inspire each other.

In a number of meetings specifically organised for the Schools, participants were able to discuss common problems in bilateral and regional meetings, and to meet Judges from the European Court of Human Rights. In many cases the links forged at such events help build international networks which last for entire careers.