University of Westminster hosts first Democracy Network Conference

Delegates explored what needs to change so that the public has more influence over the decisions that affect their lives, more resources to improve their communities, and more power to elect and hold politicians and governments to account.

The University’s Centre for the Study of Democracy, which undertakes research across a range of critical social and political challenges, is a founding member of the Democracy Network. The conference was organised with the support of Graham Smith, Professor of Politics and Director of the Centre for the Study of Democracy, and Dominika Opyrchal, Events Coordinator in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at the University. 

Professor Dibyesh Anand, Head of Social Sciences, who offered inspirational thoughts to begin the Conference, said: “As a University with a strong commitment to equity and diversity as well as to social mobility, we are keen to provide a platform to, and engage with, civil society movements that endeavour to make institutions and societies more democratic and inclusive. We hope to host more such conferences.”

Jessie Joe Jacobs, Director of the Democracy Network, said: “We were incredibly grateful to host our first UK Democracy Conference at the University of Westminster. The University made it possible to bring people together from across the UK to be inspired, challenged and encouraged that another better democracy is possible.” 

The Democracy Network is a network of people and organisations working on issues of power, democracy, and voice in the UK. It works to build a stronger democracy by connecting people and supporting collaboration, increasing knowledge, skills, and resources, and coordinating effective influencing strategies and action.

Watch the below video for more information about the Democracy Network.

Find out more about studying Politics at the University of Westminster.