Strengthening democracy, civic participation, and shared values
On June 27, 2025, the Universidad Católica Argentina (UCA) in Buenos Aires hosted a significant commemorative event: the 25th anniversary of the Warsaw Declaration, organized by the Focal Point in Argentina of the Civil Society Pillar of the Community of Democracies, together with the organization Cultura Democrática.
During the event, the book resulting from the Latin American Youth Essay Contest “In Search of Truth and Freedom in Latin America” was presented—an initiative that promotes critical reflection and youth leadership around democratic values. A highlight of the day was the participation of Enrique Arturo de Obarrio, President of RedLad and Chair of the International Steering Committee of the Civil Society Pillar, who delivered powerful remarks to mark the anniversary.
De Obarrio reminded the audience that the Warsaw Declaration, signed on June 27, 2000, by representatives from 106 countries, marked a global milestone in the commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, sustainable development, and lasting peace. He also recognized the vital role played by Madeleine Albright, Bronislaw Geremek, and Morton Halperin, the latter being a key architect of the Civil Society Pillar.
“The Civil Society Pillar is not symbolic—it is strategic and transformative,” De Obarrio emphasized, noting that the organizations within the Pillar represent the voices of those defending democracy on the ground, often under adverse conditions. In this sense, he reaffirmed that civil society brings oversight, social legitimacy, and proposals that connect international commitments with local realities.
In a global context marked by democratic backsliding, authoritarianism, disinformation, and repression, De Obarrio called for a renewed commitment to the 19 core principles of the Warsaw Declaration and to reclaim the value of full democracy—beyond merely holding periodic elections.
“Democracy is not imposed, it is built. And in that collective, inclusive, and ongoing construction, civil society will continue to be a key pillar,” he stated.
The event concluded with a strong call to collective action: to join forces across all sectors—civil society, public institutions, academia, and the private sector—to build consensus, tackle shared challenges, and translate democratic promises into rights and dignity for all.
Let’s get to work!
