Kabita Neupane Reporter
The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) will host its Global Forum on Building Trust and Reinforcing Democracy at the Lombardia, Milan, Italy — October 21-22, 2024 . This significant event will bring together policymakers, experts, and stakeholders from around the world to discuss strategies for strengthening democratic institutions and enhancing public trust in government.

A Timely Discussion
In an era marked by increasing polarization and challenges to democratic governance, the forum aims to address pressing issues such as misinformation, declining civic engagement, and the erosion of trust in democratic institutions. The event will feature a series of panels, workshops, and keynote addresses designed to foster dialogue and identify solutions.

Key Topics and Speakers
The forum will cover a range of critical topics, including:

Digital Transformation and Democracy: Exploring the impact of technology on democratic processes and how to harness digital tools to improve governance.

Civic Engagement and Participation: Strategies for increasing citizen involvement in democratic decision-making and revitalizing public interest in political processes.

Trust in Institutions: Examining the causes of declining trust in government and how transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership can restore confidence.
Media and Democracy: Addressing the role of media in shaping public opinion and combating misinformation.
Prominent speakers include:

Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the OECD
Maria Elena Boschi, Italian politician and former Minister of Constitutional Reforms
Luis Almagro, Secretary-General of the Organization of American States (OAS)
Anne Applebaum, Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and journalist
Building a Collaborative Approach
The OECD Global Forum is designed to be a platform for exchanging ideas and best practices. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in collaborative discussions and network with peers from diverse backgrounds. The forum will also highlight successful case studies and innovative approaches to democratic governance from OECD member countries and beyond.

Looking Ahead
As democratic institutions worldwide face unprecedented challenges, the OECD Global Forum on Building Trust and Reinforcing Democracy serves as a critical gathering for fostering resilience and innovation. The outcomes of the forum will contribute to the OECD’s ongoing efforts to support member countries in building more inclusive, participatory, and trustworthy democratic systems.

For more information about the event and to register, please visit the OECD website.