Realizing the promise of democracy
We bring people together to explore and build solutions to the greatest challenges facing democracy.
October 15-17, 2025 | Charlottesville, VA
Democracy360
Three days of bold ideas, engaging conversations, and visionary thinking.
Our People
Our Work
Events
Becoming America: Past, Promise, and the Path Ahead at 250
An exclusive advance screening from Ken Burns’ upcoming documentary series, The American Revolution, followed by a conversation reflecting on the nation’s founding and what it means today.
Join the Conversation: A ‘Braver Angels’ Debate
In this highly participatory Democracy360 session, you’re invited to take part in a Braver Angels debate—a structured dialogue in which students and community members explore opposing views with respect, curiosity, and a spirit of shared learning. Together, participants debate a resolution connected to the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. No prior debate experience is necessary—just a willingness to listen, speak, and learn.
Building the American Dream: Work, Tech, and Community in a Shifting Economy
Through contrasting perspectives, speakers explore what opportunity means in 21st-century America—examining economic mobility, the changing nature of work, the rise of new technologies, and the evolving foundations of our social contract.
Looking for past events?
View ArchiveIn the News
June 30,2025
Tickets Now Available for First Slate of Democracy360 Programming
The Karsh Institute of Democracy’s signature biennial gathering returns to Charlottesville this October.
Brazil Supreme Court Rules Digital Platforms Are Liable for Users' Posts
The landmark decision "introduces a more responsive system, especially for cases involving hate speech, racism, and incitement to violence — which are not protected by Brazil’s free speech laws,” said David Nemer, a professor of media studies and faculty co-lead of the Digital Technology for Democracy Lab.
www.ft.com
Crews Put the Top on the Home of UVA’s Karsh Institute of Democracy
“Topping out this building marks more than a construction milestone,” said Karsh Institute's Executive Director Melody Barnes. “It represents a symbolic step toward realizing our vision for a dynamic home where the work of democracy comes to life through scholarship, teaching, engagement, and collaboration.”
news.virginia.edu
Charlottesville City Council Primary City’s First To Use Ranked Choice Voting
Former Charlottesville Del. Sally Hudson, now executive director of Ranked Choice Virginia and a practitioner fellow at UVA’s Karsh Institute of Democracy, said the change to ranked choice voting creates a system that “respects diversity by design.”
www.vpm.org