At a time when democracy is under pressure both within and around the European Union, EMBRACE explores what it means to defend democratic values in an increasingly complex world.
In this five-part series, activists, advocates, and researchers from the EMBRACE consortium share on-the-ground perspectives from some of the EU’s most critical neighbouring regions. From resisting authoritarianism in Algeria and Belarus, to grassroots movements in Serbia and Tunisia, to navigating geopolitical tensions in Georgia and North Macedonia, to working or democracy during war in Gaza and Ukraine — this podcast brings you personal stories, expert insights, and lessons learned from those at the front lines of democratic resilience.
Whether you're a student, policymaker, or curious citizen, tune in to understand the challenges and hopes shaping democracy beyond the EU’s borders — and discover how you can get involved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
At a time when democracy is under pressure both within and around the European Union, EMBRACE explores what it means to defend democratic values in an increasingly complex world.
In this five-part series, activists, advocates, and researchers from the EMBRACE consortium share on-the-ground perspectives from some of the EU’s most critical neighbouring regions. From resisting authoritarianism in Algeria and Belarus, to grassroots movements in Serbia and Tunisia, to navigating geopolitical tensions in Georgia and North Macedonia, to working or democracy during war in Gaza and Ukraine — this podcast brings you personal stories, expert insights, and lessons learned from those at the front lines of democratic resilience.
Whether you're a student, policymaker, or curious citizen, tune in to understand the challenges and hopes shaping democracy beyond the EU’s borders — and discover how you can get involved.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Embrace Democracy – Reflections from the European Neighborhood, we speak with Professor Giselle Bosse and Zine Labidine Ghebouli about the resilience of authoritarian and hybrid regimes—and the protest movements and civil society actors that challenge them.
Drawing on case studies from Algeria, Serbia, Belarus, and Lebanon, our guests explore the concept of blockage elites— powerful actors who actively resist democratisation. We examine the tools they use to maintain control, from repression, propaganda and identity politics to international economic ties.
But there are also sparks of hope: protest movements successfully engaging with elites in Algeria, coalitions built across social groups, and vibrant opposition organising in exile in Belarus. Our guests discuss when and how democratic openings emerge, and why local ownership and strategic coalition-building are crucial for lasting change.
If this or any other episode in the series resonates with you, please share it, subscribe, and leave us a review. You can find more information on the project and additional resources and our publications on our website: www.embrace-democracy.eu. If you would like to get in touch, you can reach us at embrace@berghof-foundation.org.
Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on 11 September 2025. The statements made in this podcast are the speakers’ own and don’t reflect the EMBRACE consortium’s position.
Links to the recommendations made in the episode:
Hannah Arendt – The origins of totaliarism
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.