Realizing the Promise of Democracy
The University of Virginia’s Karsh Institute of Democracy brings people together to generate ideas and solutions that build a better democracy for all. The Institute serves as a nonpartisan, pan-University hub dedicated to understanding, defending, and invigorating the institutions, practices, and cultural underpinnings that are the foundations of democracy.
Your gift supports research, teaching, and public engagement that make democracy stronger and more vibrant at UVA, across the Commonwealth, and around the world.
Why Here? Why Now?
Democracy in the twenty-first century faces extraordinary challenges—and extraordinary opportunities. Polarization, geopolitical tension, technological displacement, disinformation, and declining trust have strained civic life. Yet through education, creativity, and collaboration, we can renew the promise of self-government.
Founded at UVA, a university created to prepare citizens for democracy, the Karsh Institute carries that mission forward with renewed urgency. We bring scholars, students, and practitioners together to confront democracy’s most pressing questions, to model dialogue across differences, and to design practical solutions that foster civic trust and engagement.
Your investment in the Karsh Institute helps us lead in this critical moment.
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The Karsh Institute of Democracy’s New Home
Our Building
Explore our plans for the development and construction of the Karsh Institute's building on Grounds.