Civic Futures: Democracy in a Changing World

Around the world, democratic institutions are under strain, while at home, trust in those institutions continues to erode. As polarization deepens and global instability grows, understanding how democracies succeed or fail has never been more urgent.

Civic Futures: Democracy in a Changing World launches the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh’s new Civic Futures series with a timely conversation featuring leading voices in global democracy and national security. Together, they will explore the forces shaping democratic governance today and what they mean for communities here in Pittsburgh and beyond.

What to expect:

• Gain a global perspective on democratic trends
• Hear frontline insights on national security, foreign policy, and global conflict
• Explore how democratic institutions are challenged and strengthened across regions
• Connect global developments to local civic life and community impact
• Engage in thoughtful dialogue with experts and fellow attendees

Doors open at 6:00PM. The speaking program begins at 7:00 PM.

Featured Speakers

Gerardo Berthin is President of Freedom House and a global expert on democratic governance, anticorruption, and civil society. With nearly three decades of experience across more than 50 countries, he has worked with institutions including the United Nations Development Programme, USAID, and the Inter-American Development Bank. He is the author of numerous books and reports on political development and democratic institutions.

Jim Sciutto is CNN’s Chief National Security Correspondent, reporting on U.S. foreign policy, the military, and global conflict. He has covered major international developments from more than 50 countries and is the recipient of multiple journalism awards, including an Emmy, a George Polk Award, and an Edward R. Murrow Award. He previously served as chief of staff and senior advisor to the U.S. Ambassador to China.

Moderator Betty Cruz is President and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh, where she leads efforts to connect global issues with civic engagement across the region.

This event is presented by the World Affairs Council of Pittsburgh in partnership with Public Source and the League of Women Voters of Greater Pittsburgh.

About the Civic Futures Series

Civic Futures is a yearlong series exploring how democratic societies endure in a time of global pressure and domestic division. Through global perspectives and local dialogue, the series brings together experts and community members to examine the forces shaping democracy and the role we all play in sustaining it.