In 2025, democracy in Europe faced both pressure and possibility. Security concerns and rapid technological change tested institutions across the region. At the same time, efforts to strengthen participation and resilience continued. Nets4Dem’s Annual Report 2025 captures this moment and shows how democratic innovation is responding and evolving.
In 2025, we continued to move democratic innovation beyond one-off experiments to become part of everyday decision making. Participation must be inclusive and it must shape real outcomes. At the same time, new technologies are changing what is possible. According to our research, artificial intelligence and digital tools can expand participation, but only when used with care and clear purpose.
Across Europe, practitioners face real constraints. Resources are limited and institutional support is often uncertain. Our programmes show that targeted training and mentorship can turn ideas into action. In 2025, more than 90 public bodies and civil society organisations were supported, leading to 33 democratic innovation initiatives implemented on the ground.
Cities also remain at the centre of this work. Through our Democracy Labs, local governments tested new approaches to complex challenges. These ranged from climate policy to social inclusion. Our focus is always on collaboration and practical experimentation. At the same time, structured exchange between cities allowed for successful ideas to travel and adapt.
Similarly at the policy level, democratic innovation is now gaining ground. The European Democracy Shield signalled a stronger commitment to democratic resilience across the European Union, while beyond the EU, Ukraine offered a striking example. Even under extreme conditions, participatory systems have expanded and adapted.
In other words, democratic innovation can definitely move from idea to practice, to become a lasting part of how decisions are made. This report reflects our shared effort, bringing together the work and commitment of a diverse network.
Read the report now to know how we make these things happen.
