The Democracy Forum

Each year, The Obama Foundation’s Democracy Forum brings together leaders, activists, and changemakers to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing democracy today. From global voices to grassroots organizers, these conversations spark new ideas and inspire action to build more inclusive, resilient societies.

President Barack Obama moderates "Hope and Pluralism," a conversation with next-generation leaders Manu Meel, Nika Kovač, and Ainka Jackson. All are a range of light to dark skin tones.

Past Forums

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2024: Pluralism in Action

How do we embrace diverse perspectives and find ways to live and work together with respect? 2024 explored the power of pluralism and the technology, storytelling, and engagement strategies that can bring more voices into the conversation.
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2023: The Future of Democracy

What does democracy look like in the hands of young leaders? The 2023 Democracy Forum highlighted bold new approaches from changemakers and leaders who are redefining civic participation and governance.
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2022: Strengthening Democratic Culture

Beyond elections and institutions, democracy thrives on shared values. This Forum focused on rebuilding trust, countering disinformation, and fostering civic engagement worldwide through conversations with global leaders, activists, and community organizers.
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Defending democracy stories

All defending democracy stories
President Obama sits in a semi circle with Obama Scholars. All are dressed professionally and have a range of light to dark skin tones. Yellow and blue signs are in the background that read, “Obama Foundation Scholars.”
  • Defending Democracy
  • Virtual Event
Ways to embrace pluralism in your daily connections
A 5-step guide to embracing pluralism, fostering connection, and engaging inclusively this holiday season.
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President Obama stands behind a podium at the 2023 Obama Foundation Democracy Forum. He is looking left and away from the audience in front of him. He is wearing a black suit. Two clear teleprompters are on the side of him.
  • Event
  • Defending Democracy
3 takeaways from the 2023 Democracy Forum
Learn how you can help foster global democracy and civic engagement.
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President Obama stands behind a podium and speaks to an audience. A screen behind him reads, “Obama Foundation Democracy Forum.” He is wearing a black suit without a tie.
  • Defending Democracy
  • Barack Obama
Read President Obama’s remarks from the 2023 Democracy Forum
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A black man, with medium skin tone, Jesse Thomas talks with his hand up into a microphone. Separated by a white line, a black woman, with dark skin tone in a blue suit, Representative Lauren Underwood, stands smiling.
  • Event
  • Defending Democracy
Two Obama alumni share their stories on stage at the 2023 Democracy Forum
Meet two Obama Alumni working to carry progress forward.
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