The Idea of Democracy

Programme and Details here

Erosion of civil liberties, suppression of political opposition and dissent, weakening of independent media, manipulation of electoral processes, and the concentration of power in the hands of a few—this is increasingly how our world has been looking lately. The optimism and the triumph of Democracy that the world witnessed at the dawn of the 21stcentury has rapidly diminished.

History confirms that when democracy is in decline, eventually, citizens may lose faith in the system, leading to increased social unrest, political instability, and even violence.

It is crucial to identify and address the factors contributing to backsliding of democracy early on to prevent further deterioration of democratic institutions and practices. And our education institutes play a very crucial role in this.

Education can provide the conceptual alphabets for a vocabulary of peace, only through the consistent interrogation of pedagogical frames that overtly —or even subliminally—transmit prejudice and intolerance. The implementation of the new National Curriculum Framework (NCF) must provide the context to not only mould “global citizens” but also “intelligent patriots” with the courage to hold up the mirror and question the shibboleths we live by. —Meenakshi Gopinath

Our quest of ‘moulding’ the global thinking intelligent citizen is incomplete without addressing the urgent need of the hour—of critical thinking, dialogue, civic participation, community engagement and non-violent action.

Details here:

https://www.historyforpeace.pw/post/the-idea-of-democracy-chapter-3-chandigarh