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When I was elected President of the European Democracy Youth Network (EDYN) last November, I knew I was taking on a responsibility that extends far beyond managing an organisation. Today, EDYN brings together young leaders from many European countries, each facing different political realities but united by a common belief, democracy is worth defending.
The GDC Europe Forum 2026 in Prague organized by EDYN in collaboration with the Global Democracy Coalition reminded me why this mission matters.
Throughout the forum, participants explored some of the defining challenges facing our generation, such as democratic resilience, electoral integrity, security, civic engagement, and the growing pressure placed on democratic institutions across Europe. Coming from Ukraine, these discussions are never abstract. Democracy is not simply a political system; it is something people fight for, sacrifice for, and work every day to preserve.
One of the highlights for me was moderating the discussion on how young people can defend electoral integrity in an increasingly complex information environment. Across Europe, we are witnessing new forms of manipulation, disinformation, and political polarisation. Yet what struck me most was not the scale of these challenges but the determination of young leaders to respond to them.
Again and again, I heard examples of local initiatives, civic movements, and grassroots campaigns making a real difference in communities. These conversations reinforced something I have learned throughout my own journey, from working in the Parliament of Ukraine to engaging with young leaders across Europe through EDYN, democratic resilience begins at the local level.
As President of EDYN, I was particularly proud to see members of our network actively contributing to the discussions. Our community represents different countries, political traditions and professional backgrounds, but we share a commitment to constructive dialogue and democratic values. At a time when public discourse is often shaped by division, EDYN continues to demonstrate that cooperation across borders is not only possible but essential.
Prague also highlighted the growing importance of international solidarity. The challenges facing democracy today do not stop at national borders. Whether we are discussing election interference, civic participation, or societal resilience, our responses must be collaborative. This is precisely why networks such as EDYN matter. We create spaces where future leaders can learn from one another, exchange experiences, and build lasting partnerships.
I left Prague with a renewed sense of optimism. Not because the challenges facing democracy have become smaller, but because I saw firsthand the talent, energy, and commitment of the young people working to address them.
The future of democracy will not be shaped by institutions alone. It will be shaped by communities, by civic engagement, and by leaders willing to build bridges when others seek to create divisions. That is the future EDYN is working towards. And Prague reminded me that we are not working towards it alone.
