European Conference on Democracy and Human Rights 2025 – Who Will Shape Europe’s Democratic Future? 

Leading Voices on Democracy and Crises

The conference will be opened by representatives from the Kristiansand European Youth Forum and Kristiansand's Mayor Mathias Bernander. For the first time, representatives from both the Nordic Council and the Council of Europe will come together for a joint discussion. This marks a historic moment for European cooperation and underscores the need for stronger dialogue between regional and international institutions to ensure the future of democracy. 

– Unrest and uncertainty in the world mean that we must even more strongly defend values such as democracy and human rights. I therefore very much appreciate that we can once again invite some of Europe's most prominent voices to Kristiansand this year. Their messages and perspectives will help highlight how we as individuals can understand the changes we face. Knowledge and dialogue will better equip us to continue building both local democracy and trust among us, says Bernander.  
 
The keynote speech will be delivered by Nils Muižnieks, UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Belarus. He will also participate in a discussion with Theodoros Rousopoulos, President of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE), and the Nordic Council. 

Ukraine in Focus: Cultural Heritage as a Target in War 

One of the most topical sessions will address Ukraine's path to peace and reconstruction. Experts will discuss political and local initiatives, international legislation, and how Europe's shared cultural heritage is threatened when Ukrainian cultural monuments are attacked. Among others, Gabrielius Landsbergis, former Lithuanian Foreign Minister, and Daniela Morari, Moldova's EU Ambassador, will participate. 

Exclusive Conversation: UN and Council of Europe on Europe's Stability 

One of the conference highlights will be a conversation between Nils Muižnieks, former UN Coordinator for the Middle East Tor Wennesland, and Deputy Secretary General of the Council of Europe Bjørn Berge. The discussion will provide unique insights into the viability of democratic institutions in today's security policy situation. 

Art as Democratic Activism

How can artists contribute to protecting democracy? The conference will highlight the role of art in the fight for freedom of expression, with participation from international artists and a special performance by Sami artist and activist Ella Marie Hætta Isaksen. 
Kristiansand municipality collaborates with the Council of Europe, KS, and a strong regional partnership to organize the European Conference on Democracy and Human Rights.