Democracy

Progressive parties and democratic institutions around the world are under intense pressure, confronting increasingly similar challenges. Rising costs of living and persistent inflation, a deepening political divide among young people, and uncertainty surrounding the impact of artificial intelligence and instability driven by geopolitical conflicts have created an unprecedented test for progressive forces in the 21st century.

In close cooperation with other FES offices worldwide, we are taking a leading role in designing a new progressive blueprint for governance that responds to the multifaceted challenges of our time. We believe that strong economic and social policies strengthen societal resilience and safeguard democratic institutions.

We regularly convene decision-makers from Germany and the United States, bringing them together in both countries to exchange best practices and ideas that tackle the most pressing issues of our time. Through these exchanges, we study innovative solutions and strategies that progressive actors are using to deliver tangible results for citizens. Our fieldwork, including political study tours and thematic programs, allows us to gather firsthand expertise, which we use to advise policymakers in the United States and Germany and to share insights with the public through journal publications and extensive social media content.