Political Participation and Democracy

At FES, we believe that citizens’ participation is key to a flourishing and resilient democracy. Democratic institutions should represent the interests of the population. Strengthening democratic openness, transparency, and the effectiveness of political institutions is therefore an important precondition for quality public policies and social inclusion.

FES is engaged in providing spaces for continuous democratic dialogue and international exchange, as well as joint reflection and analysis among important stakeholders, such as social activists, trade unions, academics, and political decision makers. Our “Young Leader Training” supports young people to intervene more effectively in politics, to exchange their views and develop ideas, and to become socially and politically active in both their local communities and on a national level.