Empowering young people in transitional societies to become leaders to advocate for democracy, strong civil societies and equal rights. A functioning democracy requires more than procedural rules or accountability. Democracy is a process of value-driven interactions. It rests on attitudes and on the arts of debating and civil engagement. In short: democracy is not possible without leadership and public communication. Since 2014, elda european leadership and debate academy addresses these issues by engaging young leaders from South-Eastern Europe and the Middle East in an innovative learning experience, offering skills and instilling attitudes that empower a new generation of responsible and active citizens. The centerpiece of elda’s activities are weeklong seminars with different focus, ranging from journalism, to political communication, female empowerment and civic activism.
