Current iLab Theme

The inaugural Keseb Democracy Innovation Lab is focused on the theme:
Reimagining community-building for inclusive and resilient democracies

Studies show that individuals with a strong sense of belonging are more likely to commit to democratic principles and contribute to democratic resilience. Fostering cross-group belonging and inclusivity is particularly important in diverse democracies, but is often a challenging endeavor that requires continuous adaptation and innovation. This challenge is further compounded when the very foundations that have defined today’s democracies are not only contested but also in need of re-envisioning.

 

In this context, imaginative and futures-oriented community-building solutions can be a powerful lever for addressing the seismic shifts of ailing democracies while nurturing the democracies of tomorrow. This is not merely a conceptual exercise but a practical mandate for pro-democracy champions to architect more inclusive and vibrant democratic futures.

Key transnational trends that informed the Innovation Lab theme

#1 Loneliness and lack of belonging have escalated from personal challenges to societal crises, transcending borders

  • In a post-COVID, high-inflation world, loneliness, the sense of not belonging, and social disconnection have grown from being personal issues to become “public policy” challenges. These challenges are impacting people across generations and geographies, prompting the creation of international commission by the World Health Organization.
  • Loneliness thrives in a low-trust environment, particularly in the absence of institutional and interpersonal trust. A notable lesson from the 2024 mega election year was the global lack of institutional trust, evident in the anti-establishment backlash against incumbents, a phenomenon unlike anything seen in the past 120 years. This is not surprising, considering a Pew study just a year prior had revealed that, across 24 countries, a median of 59% expressed dissatisfaction with their democracy’s functioning, while 74% believed that elected officials disregarded their opinions.

#2 Anti-democratic movements are responding to these crises by creating not only political but also social “homes” for fellowship and belonging 

  • The connection between loneliness and anti-democratic movements is well documented. From Germany’s Hannah Arendt in her 1951 book The Origins of Totalitarianism to a 2021 U.S. study by RAND Corporation, loneliness is noted as a significant driver for the adoption of extremist views and for joining such groups.
  • While pro-democracy narratives often focus on the fear-mongering and divisive tactics of anti-democratic movements (essentially their “out-group” strategy), these movements cultivate belonging, pride, and joy within their “in-group.” In doing so, they develop not only political but also social “homes” for their followers.

#3 Our world is changing at an exponential speed, redefining how we connect and belong in communities, both online and offline

  • Precipitated by a range of factors, such as climate change, economic disruptions, and demographic shifts, the challenges and opportunities facing societies and democracies are widening. 
  • As already seen with information technology preceding AI, current innovations will continue to have both positive and negative consequences on democracies, although at a much faster rate. This necessitates rapid cultural adaptations that support the resilience of democratic norms and societies.
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