As half the world’s population heads to the polls this year, many wonder if they are voting in vain.
Democracy appears under siege globally. In Kenya, political instability and corruption test democratic institutions, while in Venezuela, an authoritarian regime has undermined democratic processes and led to widespread crises. Bangladesh grappled with political polarization and poor governance that has seen an elected President driven out of office, whereas in America, deepening political divides and questions of electoral integrity present significant tests to its democratic principles. The strength of democracy relies significantly on the commitment of citizens, leaders, and institutions to uphold shared values. And while democratic systems are flawed, they offer a framework for citizens to voice their concerns, advocate for change, and hold leaders accountable.
Authoritarianism, economic instability, political polarization, declining trust in institutions, and the spread of misinformation pose significant threats. As we navigate these challenges, we must consider alternative governance models. Could other systems provide greater stability, fairness, and efficiency? This concerns millions worldwide who are disillusioned with the current state of democracy.
Join us at the Socrates Kenya Seminar 2024 to examine the effectiveness of democracy and consider what other models might serve our societies better in the 21st century. Travel, engage, and connect with a diverse group of senior leaders from Africa and abroad at the Fairmont Mt Kenya Safari Club in Nanyuki from the 14th to the 17th of November 2024.
About Socrates Seminar 2024
The Socrates Program, launched in the summer of 1996, gathered Silicon Valley participants to explore the “Dilemmas of the Digital Age,” aligning with the Aspen Institute’s quest to find pathways for emerging leaders.
In Africa, the first Socrates Seminar, hosted by AIA-N in 2023 convened leaders to discuss concerns surrounding artificial intelligence, digital media, privacy, and surveillance. They also explored how humans can harness the potential of emerging digital tools to benefit all of humanity, regardless of geographical, cultural, or socioeconomic differences.
Socrates seminars continue to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time, using discussions centered around classic and contemporary texts. Designed for busy professionals, these seminars offer a mix of serious content and cross-disciplinary discussions helping leaders to turn their ideas into action.
Expert moderators guide these Socratic explorations through the Aspen Method encouraging participants to share their views with a diverse group of peers in a roundtable setup. The stimulating dialogue, values-based introspection, and dynamic debate serve to enhance participants’ leadership capabilities.
You should attend Socrates Kenya 2024 If:
- You are a leader interested in critical problems facing the world
- You are seeking to connect with a diverse professional network and explore the full spectrum of the Aspen Institute’s programs.
Seminar Tuition: US$3,000
Socrates’ international seminars include:
- 3 seminar sessions
- Program meals
- Local transport and local excursions (Nairobi-Nanyuki-Nairobi)
- Accommodation in Nanyuki from November 14 – 17, 2024
- Reading and other materials