25 years after the first Global Assembly in Delhi, India in 1999, the World Movement for Democracy is excited to convene its global community of democracy advocates in Johannesburg, South Africa for the 12th Global Assembly. The World Movement for Democracy’s biennial Global Assembly is a unique place for democracy advocates around the world to come together to recognize and celebrate democratic resilience while building greater unity of effort to counter today’s challenges to democracy.
At the 12th Global Assembly, nearly 500 civil society leaders, political actors, and thinkers from nearly 100 countries and territories will connect with each other, engage in peer-learning by sharing their knowledge and experiences, and inspire the world with their courage and determination.
Countries Represented at the Global Assembly
Why is the Global Assembly to be Held in South Africa?
South Africa is an ideal location for the 12th Global Assembly as we look at important democratic gains of the past three decades. 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of South Africa’s first democratic elections. At the same time, the anti-apartheid movement has been a key inspiration for those who are today fighting for more free, just, and inclusive societies. The 12th Global Assembly will be a special occasion for the global community of democracy advocates to reflect on the historical achievements of the anti-apartheid movement and join the people of South Africa in celebrating South Africa’s democratic progress.
Despite facing significant challenges, such as deeply rooted corruption, failing infrastructure, and a growing gap between the rich and the poor, South African democracy remains strong today because of consolidated democratic institutions and independent judiciary. Vibrant civil society and independent media keep the society informed and engaged in the country’s democratic processes. Democracy advocates from other countries can learn from South Africa’s experience in defending and expanding freedom and civic engagement while building solidarity with the people of South Africa in tackling ongoing challenges to democracy by sharing expertise and innovating practical solutions. Learn more here.
The Global Assembly is about celebrating the diversity that democracy embraces, highlighting citizens’ engagement, and inspiring innovation. To achieve this, the Global Assembly will feature speakers including:
- Maria Ressa, 2021 Nobel Peace Laureate, The Philippines
- Moncef Marzouki, former President, Tunisia
- Oleksandra Matvyichuk, 2022 Nobel Peace Laureate, Ukraine
- Aisha Yesufu, Co-founder of #BringBackOurGirls , Nigeria
- Mathrews Phosa, Member of the African National Congress Negotiation Team, South Africa
- Roelf Meyer, Former Chief Negotiator for the National Party Government, South Africa
- Mbali Ntuli, Founder and CEO of Ground Work Collective, South Africa
What are the Global Assembly’s Expected Outcomes?
Featuring workshops and networking opportunities, the Global Assembly will ultimately serve as a platform to:
- Reflect on, and be inspired by, 30 years of South Africa’s democracy;
- Articulate visions for a democratic future;
- Catalyze collaboration among the Assembly participants for building democratic resilience; and,
- Express global solidarity through the presentation of Democracy Courage Tributes.
Who are the Principal Organizers?
To make the Global Assembly successful, we are excited to partner with the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation (AKF), Defend Our Democracy (DOD), Desmond and Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, Human Rights Institute of South Africa (HURISA), In Transformation Initiative (ITI), and Ronnie Mamoepa Foundation (RMF).
Be part of the 12th Global Assembly conversation by following @MoveDemocracy on X/Twitter and using the hashtag #WM12Assembly.