Music and artistic freedom are essential parts of democracy and can be a strong force to inspire, mobilise and defend fundamental values.
This 13th edition World Forum for Democracy will feature a special guest: the legendary New York-based band Gogol Bordello.
With Ukraine’s sovereignty and cultural identity under perilous threat, Gogol Bordello has been particularly active in raising awareness and support through initiatives such as Solidaritine Tour, Teroborona, Art Can Help Ukraine Win The War, A Benefit for Ukraine and other songs and projects aimed at defending democracy and peace.
On 5 November 2025, Gogol Bordello will perform at the opening of the World Forum for Democracy in Strasbourg. On 6 November, a special session “Music is a Force”, will bring together bandleader Eugene Hütz and fellow musicians to discuss freedom of artistic expression, the role of music in building democratic resilience, and the broader contribution of artists to societies in times of crisis.
The session will be followed by screening of the Scream of My Blood: A Gogol Bordello Story , a documentary produced by VICE News.
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