Vanderbilt Scholars Analyze Democracy's Resilience Amid Global Pressures
By MediaFx
Vanderbilt University’s Center for Global Democracy hosted a New York City discussion on Sept. 24, 2026, examining how democracy remains resilient amid global challenges. The event, held at Vanderbilt’s Chelsea campus, featured scholars from across disciplines, including political science, history, and international affairs. Jason Merchant, Searcy Family Dean of the College of Arts and Science, opened with a personal reflection on the fall of the Berlin Wall and the complexities of democratic governance. The panel, moderated by Elizabeth Zechmeister, included Noam Lupu, Larry Diamond, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, and Kevin Casas-Zamora, who explored public trust in democratic institutions and the role of civic engagement. Lupu cited the 2026 AmericasBarometer, showing rising support for democracy despite declining trust in key institutions. Casas-Zamora warned that focusing solely on outcomes risks undermining democratic checks and balances. The discussion concluded with optimism, noting global movements toward more inclusive democracies. The Center for Global Democracy released its 2026 report, *Pulse of Democracy*, offering free insights for policymakers and researchers.