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Welcome to the Thank You Democracy Podcast, your dedicated source for stories that illuminate the dynamic and evolving landscape of democracy around the world. Brought to you by the Global Democracy Coalition, this podcast is the newest aspect of the Voice and Value of Democracy Advocacy Campaign and celebrates the enduring spirit of democracy in a world where its values are both championed and challenged.

Each episode dives deep into the heart of democratic initiatives, highlighting the resilience and innovation, and showcases the efforts of those who are making a difference, often without recognition. Our discussions focus on the role of youth in shaping the future of democracy, how they are stepping up to meet today’s challenges, and shine a light on the unsung heroes whose tireless efforts uphold the values of freedom and equality.

With guests ranging from grassroots activists to seasoned leaders and experts, we bring you diverse perspectives and inspiring stories. Whether you’re a democracy enthusiast, a concerned global citizen, or simply curious about the forces shaping our world, the Thank You Democracy Podcast has content for everyone. Subscribe now and never miss an episode. We need to remind ourselves—and the world—why democracy is worth fighting for.

Episode 1: Felipe Paullier

In this episode of the Thank You Democracy Podcast, Club de Madrid sat down with Felipe Paullier, Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs from the UN Youth Office, to discuss his appointment to the UN, Felipe’s appointment to the UN, the transformative role of young leaders in today’s political arena and inspiring insights on how the youth can and are reshaping democracy, all extremely timely topics in this year of elections.

Felipe brings vast experience and insight as Director General of the National Youth Institute of Uruguay where de developed the Global Impact Leadership Program in 2017 and Deputy Mayor in Montevideo. For more on Felipe’s thoughts, listen in to this episode! 

Episode 2: Prim Maneechot

In this upcoming episode of the Thank You Democracy Podcast, the Asia Centre sat down with Prim Maneechot, Thai advocate for human rights and civil society, to discuss the enduring impact of Thailand’s youth movements in democratic initiatives such an the push for free and fair elections, education system reform, a more democratic constitution and challenging traditional structures like monarchy, all crucial issues in today’s global democracy.

Prim brings vast experience and insight as a community organizer for Article Group, a volunteer project coordinator for the project “Freedom of Expression”, a freelance content creator, law tutor and passionate human rights defender. For more on Prim’s thoughts, listen in to this episode! 

Episode 3: Colombe Cahen-Salvador

In this upcoming episode of the Thank You Democracy Podcast, the Global Democracy Coalition sat down with Colombe Cahen-Salvador, distinguished political activist,  co-founder of the Atlas Movement, and a candidate for Secretary-General of the United Nations, to discuss her candidacy for UN Secretary General, challenges from rising authoritarianism, the importance of youth engagement in strengthening democratic processes, Atlas’s successes in furthering democratic development, and more. 

Colombe brings vast experience and insight as the co-founder of the first pan-European political party, Volt Europa, which elected representatives at the 2019 European Elections and local elections on a vision of a more united and progressive EU, and as a trustee of the United Nations Association – UK, working to improve knowledge of transnational organisations and reform. For more on Colombe’s thoughts, listen in to this episode! 

Episode 4: Dr. Kevin Casas-Zamora

In this upcoming episode of the Thank You Democracy Podcast, the Global Democracy Coalition sat down with Dr. Kevin Casas Zamora, Secretary General of International IDEA, to discuss his path in public service, the advice he would give to his younger self, effective ways to increase youth engagement in today’s political processes, and his personal story as to why he has dedicated most of his life to promoting and protecting democracy. 

Kevin brings vast experience and insight as the former Vice President of Costa Rica, a distinguished political scientist, and a globally recognized advocate for democratic governance. For more on Kevin’s unique perspective and personal stories, listen in to this episode! 

Episode 5: Gina Romero

In this upcoming episode of the Thank You Democracy Podcast, the Global Democracy Coalition sat down with Gina Romero, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Rights to Freedom of Peaceful Assembly and of Association, to discuss why the rights to freedom of peaceful assembly and association are fundamental to a thriving democracy, some global  trends that are particularly alarming, how young people are shaping the current and future landscape of  these rights, gaps current educational efforts, and more. 

Gina brings vast experience and insight as the co-founder and former Executive Director of the Latin American and Caribbean Network for Democracy, one of our coalition partners, and the Leading/Senior Researcher for the Youth Violence Assessment in Colombia for Democracy International. For more on Gina’s unique perspective and inspiring journey, listen in to this episode!