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SUMMARY:Fostering a Fourth Democratic Wave: Countering the Authoritarian Threat with Hardy Merriman
DESCRIPTION:We welcome Hardy Merriman\,  former President of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict (ICNC) \n  \nA powerful autocratic wave is sweeping the globe. According to various measures\, authoritarian governments have risen and democracies have declined worldwide over the past two decades. To ensure long-term peace\, security\, and human rights for billions of people\, it is critical that this trend be reversed. But what will it take to foster a new democratic wave? \nCutting edge research and historical analysis find that one of the most powerful forces driving democratic transitions are populations living under authoritarian rule. Engaging with those populations—whether through foreign policy or independently as members of civil society—and supporting their struggles for human rights and democracy is a major opportunity to turn the tide. Join us as we welcome Hardy Merriman\, former president of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict (ICNC)\, to lead our conversation on strengthening democratic resiliency. \n  \nA reception for this event will take place from 5:15 – 6pm. Join us and meet other community members interested in the world. \n  \nLocation and Parking \nThe program will take place at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI 49504). \nFree parking is available. \nTickets \nThe event is free and open to the public and registration and/or tickets are not required to attend in person. \nVideo recordings of all programs will be posted on our YouTube channel\, click here. \n  \nOur Supporters \nMore information on the Foreign Policy Association Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation Special thanks to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum Special thanks to Recording sponsor Grand Rapids Community College Special thanks to Media sponsors\, WGVU and Grand Rapids Community Media Center Special thanks to the City of Holland \nOn July 4\, 2026\, our nation will commemorate and celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The journey toward this historic milestone is an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past\, honor the contributions of all Americans\, and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond. This year’s Great Decisions series reflects our country’s long history in global affairs and the current events that shape our continued engagement with the world. To join in other America250 initiatives\, visit: https://america250.org/
URL:https://worldmichigan.org/event/fostering-a-fourth-democratic-wave-countering-the-authoritarian-threat-with-hardy-merriman/
LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Mueum\, 303 Pearl St. NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States
CATEGORIES:Great Decisions
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://worldmichigan.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/SIX_AC119733-AB05-4853-94BB-AEB5C934EEBE.jpeg
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