The 12th Global Assembly of the World Movement for Democracy, held in Johannesburg, South Africa, from November 20-22, 2024, brought together nearly 700 democracy advocates from over 100 countries, reaffirming the vital link between democracy and human rights. Leading up to Human Rights Day on December 10, this gathering highlighted our community’s shared commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms and dignity for all. The Global Assembly’s dynamic discussions and collaborative spirit served as a powerful call to action, reminding us that advancing democracy is essential to upholding human rights globally and ensuring a more equitable and just future.

Taking place during South Africa’s celebration of 30 years of democracy, the Global Assembly celebrated the country’s historic journey of ending apartheid and building a non-racial democratic society. Participants reflected on the lessons from South Africa’s vibrant civil society, strong judiciary, and independent media, which have played critical roles in defending democracy over the decades. The gathering emphasized the importance of building resilient institutions to ensure democracy delivers tangible dividends for all citizens.

Through robust discussions and workshops, Global Assembly participants addressed pressing global challenges, including rising authoritarianism and digital technology’s impact on democracy, and equipped themselves with innovative strategies and inspired collection action. The Global Assembly also served as a platform for networking and building communities of action. Nearly 250 young advocates from around the world convened themselves at the “Youth Dialogue” and other networking activities to articulate their fresh visions for mobilizing the next generation of democratic leaders and strengthening their democratic narratives. Over 60 legal advocates also held a two-day side meeting, strategizing on how to counter the increasingly widespread foreign-agents laws around the world. Democracy support organizations including donors and private philanthropies gathered to identity ways for working in common cause and supporting their partners more effectively.

On the final day of the Global Assembly, the World Movement’s Steering Committee presented its Democracy Courage Tributes to recognize the bravery of democracy movements around the world. This year’s tributes will honor the courageous work of Palestinian civil society, the Ugandan LGBTIQ+ movement, pro-democracy advocates in Venezuela, and Ukrainian civil society. Learn more here.

By uniting advocates worldwide, the Global Assembly not only honored South Africa’s democratic legacy but deepened global solidarity, fostering collaboration to advance democracy and human rights globally.

See the highlights of the 12^th Global Assembly in our photo gallery here.