DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Research shows a worrying trend. According to the V-Dem Institute, democratic countries were in the minority by 2025. Freedom of expression is declining, while disinformation and polarisation are increasing. In many countries, authoritarian leaders are gaining power, and minority groups face growing discrimination and persecution.

At the same time, democratic space is shrinking. Civil society organisations, trade unions and human rights defenders face threats, harassment and, in some cases, imprisonment.

What we do:

• We support civil society organisations, because organising is key to people’s ability to make their voices heard.
• We support trade unions so they can defend workers’ rights and promote fair working conditions.
• We work with progressive political parties and movements to strengthen democratic structures and participation.
• We bring together organisations, political actors and trade unions to build alliances and develop joint solutions.
• We promote knowledge of democracy and human rights through popular education.
• In Sweden, we engage in public debate to defend democratic values and counter authoritarian ideas.
• We raise awareness of countries where democracy is under threat, such as Turkey and Myanmar.
• We influence policy through seminars, campaigns and dialogue with decision-makers.
• Through international networks, we contribute to advocacy in the UN, the EU and other multilateral forums, bringing forward our partners’ perspectives.