Last year was marked by significant challenges and remarkable achievements as we worked tirelessly to promote and protect democratic values worldwide. The Annual Report for 2023 details our comprehensive efforts, highlighting our response to the evolving landscape of digital democracy, the defense of the rule of law, and the empowerment of civil society. Whether combating the spread of disinformation, supporting free and fair elections, or fostering inclusive governance, we were committed to ensuring that democracy remains resilient and robust in an increasingly volatile global context.
In Europe, we were at the forefront of efforts to safeguard democratic norms in the face of rising illiberal tendencies and political instability. Our initiatives included promoting the rule of law and supporting Ukraine’s fight for territorial integrity and democracy. We worked closely with local partners and communities to reinforce democratic institutions and uphold human rights standards, demonstrating our commitment to building a stronger and more united values-based Europe.
From developing social media monitoring tools to advocating for greater transparency and accountability from tech platforms, we have also been at the forefront of efforts to protect the integrity of public discourse in the digital age with our Digital Democracy programme. Our DisinfoRadar project, which addresses the rise of AI-driven disinformation, and our participation in the EU’s Code of Practice on Disinformation are just two examples of how we are tackling these emerging threats.
In the Middle East and North Africa, DRI focused on strengthening the capacities of youth and civil society organisations in Lebanon and Tunisia. In these regions, where political and social challenges are deeply entrenched, we provided vital support for initiatives fostering political participation, countering online hate speech, and advocating for policy reforms. Our work in these countries underscores the importance of local engagement and resilience amidst growing regional tensions.
We significantly expanded our activities in Sub-Saharan Africa, including the opening of a new regional office. We supported the deployment of thousands of election observers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, contributing to the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. Our programmes across the region have focused on enhancing democratic participation, particularly among youth and women, and promoting accountability and good governance. These efforts reflect our broader strategy of empowering communities to drive positive change from the ground up.
In Asia, despite the challenges posed by a shrinking civic space, we continued to support civil society in Sri Lanka and Myanmar. Our work centered on building networks of pro-democracy activists, providing training and resources to uphold fundamental freedoms, and advocating for legal reforms that protect human rights. While political repression has created a challenging environment for democracy there, a lack of funding led to the closing of our offices in the region.
This report is not just a record of what we have achieved but a call to action. It serves as a resource for policymakers, activists, and citizens alike, providing insights into the current state of democracy and offering concrete examples of how we can work together to protect it.
We invite you to explore the full report, where you will find detailed accounts of our projects, stories from the field, and the data that illustrate the breadth and depth of our impact. Each page reflects the dedication of our teams and partners around the world, and the unwavering belief that democracy is worth fighting for.
Thank you for your support and for joining us on this journey!