Realizing the promise of democracy
The Karsh Institute of Democracy studies and invigorates the institutions, practices, and cultural underpinnings that are the foundations of democracy.
'Touchstones of Democracy'
Exploring key events, places, thinkers, and texts that inform the history and principles of democracy.
Our People
Our Work
Events
Land, Climate, and Justice Conference
Interdisciplinary conversations about a range of topics, including property rights, land use regulation, housing, sustainability, segregation, metropolitan inequality, cities, rural communities, and federal-state-local relations.
Holding Public Officials to Account: Restoring Integrity to Government Service
Holding public officials to account and restoring integrity to government service.
Lee Lecture: The Fall of the Grand Alliance (1944–45)
Examining why relations between the Soviet and American airmen on the WW II U.S. bases in Soviet Ukraine steadily deteriorated.
Looking for past events?
View ArchiveIn the News
In 2024 Global Elections, Democracy Is on the Ballot
During a record election year, Karsh Institute-affiliated faculty members comment on the situations in their countries of expertise.
news.virginia.edu
Former White House Officials Discuss How To Preserve Democracy
Former White House officials Melody Barnes (executive director of the Karsh Institute of Democracy) and John Bridgeland talk about how to work together across differences and strengthen democracy on the latest “Common Law” podcast.
www.law.virginia.edu
Stricter Air Pollution Standards Likely Won't Help Communities Plagued by Coal Dust
“It just hurts,” said Malcolm Jones, who is working with the Karsh Institute's Repair Lab on the coal dust issue. “To be unheard for that long, it just takes away from the trust of the public.”
whro.org
In 2024 Global Elections, Democracy Is on the Ballot
During a record election year, Karsh Institute-affiliated faculty comment on the situation in their countries of expertise.