This report sets out the conclusions of a year-long research project led by CIVICUS, the global civil society alliance. Our consultations heard the voices of people from around 80 countries. Civil society leaders, activists and stakeholders shared 54 written contributions and provided 97 interviews, while 26 democracy dialogues – informal citizen-led discussions on challenges with and hopes for democracy – were convened in countries around the world. All contributions have been published on our ‘reimagining democracy’ homepage. We thank all who shared their views.

Download full report:

Case studies from different countries of challenges encountered, civil society action to realise democratic freedoms and improve democratic practices, and lessons learned.

Global perspectives on key aspects of the theme.

Short reports from informal and interactive group sessions, convened by CIVICUS members, on key aspects of reimagining democracy in different contexts.

In-depth conversations with civil society activists and leaders about their work to promote democratic freedoms and better democratic practice, the challenges they encounter and the victories they score.

Short videos showcasing activists’ responses to two basic questions: what isn’t working with democracy where you are? And what can you do about it?

Critical ideas, perspectives and hopes about democracy, participation and inclusion in written, graphic, audiovisual and musical form