Theme: Building a Global Coalition for Freedom
Date: 15 March 2025 from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM CET
Location: Cascina Cuccagna, Via Privata Cuccagna 2/4, Milan, Italy (In-Person) & Online (Zoom link to be provided when registered)
Host: Atlas Movement
On March 15, 2025, Atlas Movement in collaboration with the Global Democracy Coalition (GDC) hosted the Europe GDC Forum 2025 in Milan, Italy during the Freedom Marathon. This event brought together citizens, activists, policymakers, and thought leaders from various regions to explore the creation of a Global Coalition for Freedom. The forum was also accessible to a global audience through digital participation.
The Europe GDC Forum 2025 took place in the context of growing global challenges—ranging from the war in Ukraine to the ongoing Palestinian struggle—where citizens around the world have increasingly lost faith in the ability of global powers to uphold democratic values and human rights. In a time of rising polarization and growing divisions, the need for a values-based coalition supporting freedom and democracy has never been more urgent.
The forum examined how Europe and other democracies can help fill the leadership void left by more isolationist foreign policies, especially in light of the failures of traditional international mechanisms to respond effectively to human rights violations and oppression. Through panels, workshops, and discussions, the event explored various pathways to create a global pro-freedom movement, whether through reforming existing institutions like the European Union or United Nations, building entirely new multilateral frameworks, or strengthening regional unions and alliances.
Event Highlights:
- Panels & Workshops: Participants engaged in dynamic discussions focusing on the creation of a Global Coalition for Freedom, exploring case studies of successful freedom movements, and identifying actionable solutions to strengthen democracy and human rights across the globe.
- Speakers: Leading experts, activists, and political figures provided insights on building cross-border collaborations and crafting policy solutions to support global freedom struggles.
- Global Dialogue: While the focus will be on Europe, the forum incorporated perspectives from other regions, fostering a truly global exchange of ideas, strategies, and experiences.
The Europe GDC Forum 2025 also had special significance as it occured just before Italy’s Memorial Day for Mafia Victims, a day dedicated to honoring Italy’s freedom fighters against organized crime. This connection emphasized the broader global struggle for freedom and justice.
Programme:
Watch the Full Forum Here:
Recap:
