100 the Akademists and guests explored how we can democratize each other and society at this year's Open Academy at Thorvaldsens Museum.
We are living in a time of transition for democracy: All over the world, NGOs, governments, and businesses are rethinking democratic processes, opportunities for participation, and forms of organization. At the same time, democracy as a form of government is under pressure in many places. The fundamental question is: Who has the power to bring about the social changes necessary for the future? At the Academy, we believe that positive change begins with all of us.
For Open Academy 2024, we brought together 100 committed leaders from across society to explore new perspectives and practice democratization together.
Below you’ll find highlights and interviews from the event.
The new civic role
At the Open Academy, we were inspired by each other and by three powerful speakers, each with their own story of democratic participation.
Climate activist Elise Sydendal said, among other things, that necessary changes cannot always be achieved within the established framework. “Power is a zero-sum game. And if you truly want to involve young people, you must also give up some of your own influence.”
British democracy thinker and founder of The New Citizen Project, Jon Alexander, described how we can move beyond today’s passive consumer role and rediscover our identity as engaged citizens with strong, reciprocal relationships and communities.
Lars Tønder, a professor at the University of Copenhagen, spoke about how other species practice democracy—and what we as humans can learn from thinking like honeybees. He emphasized that swarms of bees make highly complex decisions collectively through knowledge sharing and without a clear leader. “Just like honeybees, society’s ability to survive may depend on our curiosity and communication across social and political divides.”
The good conversation
After the powerful presentations, participants gathered in Thorvaldsen's beautiful courtyard to engage in the classic discipline of deliberation: finding common understanding through good conversations. Democracy advisor Zakia Elvang provided expert guidance and a number of the Akademists hosted conversations on everything from education and democratic leadership to broader inclusion and democratization of welfare.
Contact Ulla Dubgaard
ulla@afsi.dk
