Assistant Professor, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam; Ramón Areces Fellow & Visiting Scholar 2024-2025, Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies, Harvard University
Lower Level Conference Room, Adolphus Busch Hall
Directions
Join us for a discussion with former Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar on the future of liberal democracy in Europe at a time of rising populism, democratic backsliding, and geopolitical uncertainty. Drawing on his experience leading Ireland through the complexities of Brexit and serving on the UN Security Council, Varadkar will share insights on the EU’s evolving political landscape; the challenges liberal democracies face today; the protection of minority rights; and the role of inclusive policies in fostering social cohesion across an increasingly diverse Europe. In light of his leadership in advancing LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, Varadkar will also address the broader question of how European democracies can remain both open and resilient in the face of intensifying pressures.