The Outlook

A digital global magazine for and by democracy champions

The Outlook 2025

If opponents of democracy are collaborating across borders, why aren’t proponents of democracy doing the same at scale? This is one of the main queries upon which Keseb was founded three years ago, and why we have built an organization that sits at the intersection of U.S. and global democracy.

This first edition of The Outlook invites civil society to meet a historic moment with courage, highlights notable transnational trends, and features insights from leaders in Brazil, Georgia, Germany, Indonesia, Nigeria, and the United States.

Civil Society’s Dual Mission: Surviving and Architecting

Yordanos Eyoel, Keseb

The global landscape is increasingly shaped by restrictive laws, surveillance, and attacks against civil society organizations. Yordanos Eyoel outlines a proposal for how civil society can navigate this disruptive moment and architect a brighter collective future. 

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Ten Global Trends to Know

Sandra Blackmun and Jordyn Endrick, Keseb

Democracy appears more fragile than it has in a generation, marked by political instability, institutional decline, and decreasing public trust. Ten key trends showcase the challenges ahead as well as the monumental role civil society continues to play in safeguarding and revitalizing democracy.

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Protesting for Democracy
in Georgia

Hans Gutbrod, Ilia State University

In recent years, governments have imposed restrictions on civic spaces, sparking widespread protests from civil society. Hans Gutbrod delves into the ongoing protests in Georgia, exploring the dynamics of resistance under state repression, while reflecting on the broader implications for democratic movements globally.

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Understanding Youth Engagement in the United States

Abby Kiesa, formerly Tufts University

Young voters have become a crucial voting bloc in recent elections across various countries. Abby Kiesa explores how economic challenges, political polarization, and a lack of representation erode young people’s trust in democracy in the United States, and offers key lessons for civil society.

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The Illusion of Media Decentralization in
Indonesia’s 2024 Election

Andhyta “Afu” Utami, Think Policy

Recent elections have underscored how campaigns and voters are adapting to and navigating the growing influence of digital media. Afu Utami explores how social media was used in Indonesia to shape and control narratives, revealing the paradox of decentralization and the ongoing concentration of media power in the hands of a few. 

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Examining Ideological
Realignment in Germany

Benjamin Höhne, Chemnitz University of Technology

Political shifts across several countries demonstrate ongoing ideological realignments within major political parties. Benjamin Höhne examines the rise of the “Bündnis Sahra Wagenknecht” (BSW) party in Germany, which combines progressive and conservative positions, and its role in reshaping the country’s political landscape.

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The Evolution of Political
Parties in Brazil

Fernando Haddad Moura, Legisla Brazil

Globally, growing efforts to restructure party systems aim to improve representation, rebuild public trust, and broaden political participation. Fernando Haddad Moura examines Brazil’s long-standing issue of party fragmentation and the implications of current reforms.

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Democracy Without Ballots? Lessons from Nigeria's
Subnational Elections

Samson Itodo, Yiaga Africa

Across the globe, recent efforts have aimed at expanding the resources and decision-making authority of local institutions. Samson Itodo explores how Nigeria’s landmark Supreme Court ruling to strengthen local governments has reinvigorated grassroots democracy and highlights the critical role civil society plays in defending election integrity. 

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