Addressing the challenges facing democracy today
Raghu Rai. Local commuters at Church Gate railway station. Mumbai. 1995
Around the world, democracies confront serious challenges, old and new.
These range from enduring challenges, such as enhancing civic participation, political representation and democratic accountability, to confronting the ramifications of digital technologies, rising social inequalities and shifting power relations in the evolving international order. The Jarislowsky Democracy Chair pursues critical research and collaborative partnerships that advance public understanding and explore practical innovations to meet these imperatives.
Learn how you can be on the frontlines of democracy.
What’s New
16 May 2025
NEW PODCAST! Globalization and the New Geography of Inequality with Branko Milanovic
Host Sanjay Ruparelia speaks with economist Branko Milanović about the structural forces driving economic inequality around the world. Milanović explains how globalization has narrowed income gaps between countries while widening them within nations. He reflects on the political consequences of these shifts, including the rise of plutocracies and the erosion of middle-class stability. The conversation explores proposals to reduce inequality—such as pre-distribution policies, changes to taxation, and rethinking access to education. It also examines the dilemmas surrounding global migration and the idea of the “citizenship premium.”
16 April 2025
From Law Student to Chief Justice: The Role of the Judiciary in Democracy with Beverely McLachlin
Host Sanjay Ruparelia speaks with former Chief Justice Beverley McLachlin about the role of courts in upholding constitutional democracy. McLachlin reflects on fairness and moral intuition in making judgments. She also discusses the evolution of the “living tree” doctrine and efforts to build consensus and transparency at the Supreme Court. The conversation ends with a look at the balance of power among branches of government and the threats posed by leaders who challenge constitutional norms.
How can we revitalize civic engagement, empower public institutions and strengthen the prospects of democracy today?
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