“Democracy=Peace?” with a simple equitation provoking reflection and rethinking, the European Capital of Democracy (ECoD) conducted an online survey, to test the perception of European citizens on the correlation between peace and democracy from 19 to 30 October. The results of the survey, which were presented at the Council of Europe World Forum for Democracy 2023, demonstrate that a significant majority of the population across the Council of Europe countries recognizes the pivotal role of democracy in promoting and preserving peace.
The survey panel was recruited from 4,018 members of ECoD’s network of engaged citizens, the European Citizens Jury, born in or residing in a Council of Europe member state or Kosovo*, thoughtfully structured to maintain a gender and age balance, with a particular emphasis on engaging young people under the age of 26. 647 members of this City Jury responded to the online questionnaire and a focus group involving six participants completed the survey
The responses notably show that 80% of the responding citizens believe autocratic countries have a higher risk for war. In the same vein, 59% of respondents believe citizen participation can contribute to peaceful societies, and 53% consider it is crucial. Strong economic ties and trade relations with neighbouring countries are also perceived to help reduce the risk of war. The strong opinion divides regarding the role of social media in promoting or hindering peaceful and constructive discussion is also worth mentioning, with 56% of respondent considering social media as a powerful tool for political activism and peaceful protests, 60% finding it often unclear who is deriving campaigns and positions and 62% believing it contributes to escalating conflicts. International institutions like the Council of Europe are seen as the right organisations to develop and provide standards and tools to support peace.
As reflected in both the survey results and the focus group discussion, individual citizens play a pivotal role in securing and defending democracy and peace. Governments need to invest heavily in education and provide equal possibilities for all citizens to foster participation and strengthen civil society. Independent journalists, free media and freedom of expression also need to be protected and supported financially, according to the respondents. An approach combining robust top-down institutional support with grassroots bottom-up demands for democracy and peace is seen as necessary to overcome the current global challenges and work towards a better world.
* All references to Kosovo, whether to the territory, institutions or population, in this text shall be understood in full compliance with United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 and without prejudice to the status of Kosovo.
