In the midst of the current polycrisis, democracy is under constant threat worldwide. It faces the challenge of right-wing populism and struggles with deep social divisions, economic insecurity, the impact of wars and accelerating climate change. Authoritarian figures are weakening key democratic institutions, norms and processes in their countries, such as the separation of powers, the independence of the judiciary and freedom of the press. In recent years, more and more citizens are willing to oppose these tendencies and take to the streets in favour of democracy.
And just as there are citizens who are prepared to defend democratic values, there are also politicians who are prepared to fight alongside them. One of them is the mayor of Istanbul, Ekrem İmamoğlu, speaker of the Helmut Schmidt Lecture 2024 on the topic "For a Just Democracy!" His commitment to equality, civic participation and economic and social development policy at local level shows his strong commitment to democracy and his willingness to take a stand against authoritarianism, which is why we can't think of a better speaker for this topic.
In 2019, he won the race for Mayor of Istanbul as an "outsider" and CHP candidate and was re-elected in 2024 after a successful first term. Due to his biography, he is very popular with the Turkish public across all social classes, cultures, religions and age groups. He is also a beacon of hope for many who want to see a democratic transformation of the country.
In the future-oriented spirit of Helmut Schmidt, we honour his commitment to democracy by bringing together inspiring personalities with our lecture for a comprehensive discussion on strengthening democracy that is rich in perspective. Following the lecture and panel discussion, your expertise, impressions and thoughts will be incorporated into the discourse in small, moderated discussion groups.
Helmut Schmidt Lectures at a glance
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BKHS Magazine | "For a Just Democracy!"
"Just democracy is an obligation for me"
A look back: Key success factors for a just democracy
Speech by Ekrem İmamoğlu
Welcome speech by Peer Steinbrück
Deliberative democracy: An approach for more fair decisions
Aya Adachi: Fellow for Helmut Schmidt Lecture "For a Just Democracy!"
Political and social developments in Turkey