Civic Techs and Quality of Democracy: Resisting Autocratization in Polarized Societies

This panel will explore the global role of Civic Techs in improving the quality of democracy and resisting autocratization, particularly in societies facing increased polarization. Civic Techs, which include digital platforms that promote citizen engagement, transparency, and accountability, are increasingly recognized as vital tools in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering more inclusive governance.
The panel will examine diverse experiences from around the world, focusing on how Civic Techs have been employed to enhance democratic quality by promoting informed public discourse, reducing ideological polarization, and empowering citizens. In environments where traditional democratic mechanisms are strained, these technologies provide innovative solutions that bridge the gap between government and society, enabling more direct and participatory forms of governance.
Participants will discuss key challenges and successes in the implementation of Civic Techs, considering their impact on the resilience of democracies under threat. The discussion will also explore how these technologies contribute to the broader goal of maintaining democratic quality, particularly in the face of autocratic tendencies.
This session aims to foster an interdisciplinary dialogue on the role of technology in preserving and enhancing democratic quality, providing insights and strategies that can be applied globally to counter the growing challenges of autocratization and polarization.