Addressing the challenges facing democracy today
Raghu Rai. Local commuters at Church Gate railway station. Mumbai. 1995
Around the world, democracies confront serious challenges, old and new.
These range from enduring challenges, such as enhancing civic participation, political representation and democratic accountability, to confronting the ramifications of digital technologies, rising social inequalities and shifting power relations in the evolving international order. The Jarislowsky Democracy Chair pursues critical research and collaborative partnerships that advance public understanding and explore practical innovations to meet these imperatives.
Learn how you can be on the frontlines of democracy.
What’s New
27 March 2025
UPCOMING! Protecting Canada’s Courts: Lessons from Our Longest-Serving Chief Justice
The role of apex courts in safeguarding constitutional values and democratic institutions, and upholding the rule of law, has become acute in an era of backsliding.
What distinctive features of Canada's judicial system have protected its independence? How does Canada compare to the United States? Are these norms, structures and rules adequate for the challenges ahead?
As Canada's longest-serving Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada (2000-2017), the Right Honourable Beverley McLachlin presided over some of the most significant legal decisions in our history. In this crucial moment for democracy worldwide, she offers unique insights into the resilience of Canada's judicial system and the challenges facing our courts in an era of increasing populism, mistrust and polarization.
12 February 2025
NEW PODCAST! Wild Democracy: Anarchy, Solidarity, And Ruling the Law with Anne Norton
Host Sanjay Ruparelia and Anne Norton sit to discuss Norton’s book Wild Democracy: Anarchy, Courage, and Ruling the Law, which reimagines freedom and democracy as expansive and inclusive. They discuss how anarchy, rather than being chaotic, can be a nursery for democracy. Norton argues that authoritarianism is a greater threat than anarchy and examines the qualities necessary for a truly free and democratic society. Their conversation also touches on the nature of rights, the responsibility to resist unjust laws, the role of institutions, and why democracy must remain "wild" to allow space for dissent and change.
How can we revitalize civic engagement, empower public institutions and strengthen the prospects of democracy today?
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