Based on universal principles and ideals, democracy draws its strength from many different traditions of thought and practice.
At the Karsh Institute, our work focuses on three interrelated pillars that inform the meaning and possibilities of democracy: norms and culture, laws and institutions, and social and economic conditions.
The three pillars of democracy: norms and culture, laws and institutions, and social and economic conditions
Our scholarship and programs span disciplines, time, and place—from art and psychology to law and political science; from ancient civilizations to modern societies in which people are fighting for democratic values and institutions.
Karsh By the Numbers
During the 2023–24 academic year, the Karsh Institute executed a robust slate of programs, research, and events—demonstrating the many steps we are taking to have impact as we continue confronting key challenges to democracy, both longstanding and new. >>READ MORE
Our Focus
On November 5, 2024, the United States held a free and fair election—a hallmark of democratic government. In exit polls, most Americans called democracy a top priority. The Karsh Institute is focused on several areas that are essential for a vibrant democracy—working to develop solutions that support good governance and meaningful engagement in civic life.
Election 2024
Exploring the importance of democratic elections in the United States and around the world this year.
2024–25 Student Dialogue Fellowship
The inaugural Student Dialogue Fellowship brings together nearly 300 UVA undergraduate and graduate students from all backgrounds and with a diverse range of views and experiences for a monthly series of conversations about the 2024 U.S. elections.
'Touchstones of Democracy'
This event series takes a deep dive on key moments, places, thinkers, and texts that inform the history and principles of democracy.
Talking Across Difference
Events, programs, research, classes, and other opportunities at the University of Virginia to foster open dialogue among people with varying backgrounds, opinions, and perspectives.
txd.karshinstitute.virginia.edu
Democracy360
A vibrant exploration of democracy from every angle. The free three-day event brought together thought leaders, journalists, policymakers, scholars, activists, artists, and students in Charlottesville, VA, to imagine how we can collectively shape a thriving democratic future. Learn more and watch featured sessions.
karshinstitute.virginia.edu
A Collaborative Approach
The Karsh Institute’s research and teaching is built on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative techniques.
Democracy Labs and Working Groups form the academic foundation of the Karsh Institute and create a venue for faculty from across the University to team up with postdoctoral scholars, practitioners, and graduate and undergraduate students to delve into specific and timely democracy-related topics. The Lab and Working Group models allow the Karsh Institute to adapt its areas of focus and support research, teaching, and public outreach to address contemporary challenges to democracy—and new challenges as they arise.
Democracy Labs & Working Groups
The Karsh Institute's approach to research and teaching is built on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative techniques.
In the Classroom
Each semester, the Karsh Institute provides UVA students with a guide to courses on or related to democracy, including those taught by faculty in the Karsh Institute’s Nau Lab and in schools across the University.
Democracy Course Guide
Courses offered at UVA that are about—or related to—democracy.
Engage With Us
Public events, job opportunities, grants, and other ways for students, faculty, and the wider community to get involved with the Karsh Institute.
The lifeblood of democracy is full participation by all people