Finding What Works: Building Reform Coalitions in Brazil
04:00 PM - 05:30 PM
In conversation with Anne Applebaum, Marcus Melo examined how reform was pursued in post-authoritarian Brazil and also shared his insights on what we can expect in today's post-election scenario.
Democracy Ideas: Javier Corrales, "Authoritarianism in Venezuela"
FEB 24, 2014 Democracy Ideas: Javier Corrales, "Authoritarianism in Venezuela" International Forum for Democratic Studies Interview Series
Clientelism, Social Policy, and the Quality of Democracy
International Forum for Democratic Studies Book “There are many reasons for the failure of democracy, but one of the most significant factors is bad governance….the individual benefits that collectively...
Central America Citizen (In)security Index: Improving the...
09:00 AM - 10:30 AM
In Central America, crime and insecurity continue to be the main challenge to democratic governance. Members of RESDAL presented their most recent analysis of the security situation in Central America explained their standardized index. The index allows for cross-country comparisons and provides crucial information for developing a regional approach towards crime. Members discussed what their findings mean for democracy in Central America and answered questions such as, what consequences do high levels of criminality and insecurity have for progress toward democracy? How can civil society promote greater interaction among governments in the region?
Transparency and the Struggle for Accountability in Mexico
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
In her presentation, Irma Sandoval-Ballesteros focused on the Mexican case to examine the dynamics of how this new context of “structural pluralism” of public authority is affecting policy, including how Mexico’s new and comprehensive FOIA law is failing to meet its promise. Ms. Sandoval-Ballesteros offered recommendations for developing strategies to expand transparency and anti-corruption policies that can help strengthen democratic institutions in Mexico. Her presentation was followed by comments by Mr. Eric Hershberg.
Digital Security and Press Freedom in Latin America
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
A joint project between the International Center for Journalists and Freedom House, the survey finds that as journalists increasingly use online platforms, social networks, and mobile devices to post comments or reports about crime and corruption, they face serious digital risks to their identity and privacy.
Intercepting Democracy: Colombia’s Intelligence Service...
12:00 AM - 12:00 AM
In his presentation, journalist and human rights activist Hollman Morris recounted the illegal actions undertaken by the DAS and discuss issues of political responsibility and the consequences for individual victims, civil society, and the state of democracy in Colombia. Mr. Morris proposed recommendations for addressing past abuses and reinforcing respect for the fundamental rights of citizens. Brandon Yoder provided comments.
The Legacy of Laura Pollán: the Struggle for Democracy...
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
The National Endowment for Democracy honors the life and legacy of Laura Pollán, founder of Cuba's Ladies in White, in this event which discusses the ongoing struggle for democracy and human rights in Cuba. Jose Luis García Paneque, Pablo Diaz Espí, Janisset Rivero, Yesenia Alvarez Temoche, and Barbara E. Joe join us to discuss Laura's legacy and Cuba's future.
Democracy and Insecurity in Central America: The Role of...
02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Panelists discussed the consequences of high levels of insecurity have for democratic stability, militarization policy effects on democracy and governance, the role does civil society in civilian oversight of the armed forces and in security policy proposal and oversight, and how governments can tap into innovative policy recommendations from civil society organizations.
The 2012 Mexican Elections: A New Test for Democracy
02:00 PM - 03:30 PM
Dr. Luis Carlos Ugalde, former president of Mexico’s Federal Electoral Commission (IFE) in 2006, put the upcoming 2011 Mexican elections in historical perspective and to offered recommendations on how to strengthen Mexico’s evolving democracy.
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