Is Addressing Double Standards the Key to Defending Democracy?

Club de Madrid, in collaboration with the Munich Security Conference (MSC), will convene an intergenerational dialogue at Amerikahaus in Munich, bringing together young political leaders from the Global South and seasoned former heads of state. The event, titled “Addressing Double Standards: An Intergenerational Dialogue of Young Leaders and Club de Madrid Members,” will examine the inconsistencies in the application of democratic principles in global affairs.

This discussion is part of the MSC @ Amerikahaus – Emerging Leaders series and is open to all MSC blue and blue-white badge holders as well as members of the public.

Democracy relies on trust, but its credibility is increasingly questioned when principles are applied inconsistently. As political commitments to democracy and human rights sometimes seem selective, skepticism about their universality grows. This roundtable will explore how different generations perceive these challenges and how they shape the future of democratic governance.

Can these viewpoints be reconciled to create a more consistent and values-driven approach to democracy? This discussion will explore whether addressing double standards is key to defending democracy globally. How can nations bridge the gap between rhetoric and action? What steps can be taken to restore trust in democratic ideals and institutions?

Distinguished Speakers:

Sabir Ali – Political Activist and lead member of the Chief Minister Special Committee on Youth Reforms (Government of Sindh); Member of Club de Madrid’s WYDE Network of Young Decision Makers
Elena Motta – Congress Member of Guatemala; Member of Club de Madrid’s WYDE Network of Young Decision Makers
Aminata Toure – Prime Minister of Senegal (2013-2014); Member of Club de Madrid
Danilo Turk – President of Slovenia (2007-2012); President of Club de Madrid