2 - 3 March 2027
They allow people to participate, be heard and shape the societies they live in. They also set the limits that no majority should be able to override.
European democracies have shown that they can adapt in times of profound change while preserving the values that hold the EU together.
A resilient and thriving democracy depends on people being free to:
Democracies stay strong when governments are held accountable, institutions remain independent, and power is separated and balanced.
Europe is going through profound change: geopolitical and economic instability, widening inequality and polarisation, disinformation, technological disruption and pressure on civic space.
These challenges are reshaping democratic life. But they also create opportunities to strengthen our democratic societies – to ensure they can better respond to the needs of people and protect their rights.
The Forum will explore how fundamental rights anchor democracies in times of change, guiding how they adapt and setting limits on what change can take away.
Together, we will examine how to build democracies that are: inclusive today, effective and responsive in practice, and resilient for tomorrow.
Vienna, 2-3 March 2027
For two days, the Hofburg will become a space for debate, ideas and action. People from different generations and backgrounds across Europe will come together to explore the following question:
How do we ensure fundamental right are protected, so that democracy works for everyone?
Representatives from governments, EU institutions, international organisations, human rights bodies, civil society, business, academia, media and youth organisations will join the conversation. Their voices will contribute to a broad dialogue that values the diversity of experiences and perspectives across generations. Together, they will examine today’s democratic challenges and identify ways forward.
The Forum is co-organised by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) and the Federal Ministry for European and International Affairs of Austria, with the participation of the City of Vienna.
How can democracy become more resilient, inclusive and effective?
The Forum will explore this question through four interconnected themes.
How can democracies respond to security threats in ways that protect fundamental rights, public trust or democratic checks and balances?
How can openness, pluralism and accountability strengthen democratic resilience in times of uncertainty?
Digital technologies influence how people access information, form opinions and participate in public life.
What does this mean for democratic participation?
Who is heard?
Who remains absent from decision-making?
And how can broader participation, including the voices of young and underrepresented people, strengthen democratic trust?
How can democratic institutions respond to people's everyday concerns while making decisions that serve future generations?
This means addressing long-term challenges, protecting fundamental rights and ensuring that younger and future generations can shape the decisions that affect their lives.
Looking back. Looking forward
The Vienna Forum will also mark 20 years of FRA's work as the EU's independent agency for fundamental rights.
It is an opportunity to reflect on two decades of progress – and to look ahead to the challenges that will shape rights and democracy in the years to come.
Vienna Forum for Fundamental Rights and Democracy 2027
2 - 3 March 2027
Online
In-person participation by invitation only
