The Eastern Caucasus is part of the Africa-based think tanks invited to join the inaugural Africa Resisting Illiberalism Cohort, which was convened in Nairobi, Kenya. The spirit of collaboration and knowledge-sharing has extended far beyond geographical boundaries. As a think tank operating within a potentially complex and sensitive environment, the Eastern Caucasus actively engaged in this crucial initiative, demonstrating its commitment to countering illiberalism and uplifting those living on the edge of poverty.
The participation of the Eastern Caucasus in the cohort underscores the paramount importance of such platforms in bringing together organizations that work in difficult spaces. Think tanks operating in environments where democratic norms are challenged often face unique hurdles, including limited access to resources, potential political pressure, and the need for innovative strategies to promote liberal values. The Illiberalism Cohort provides a vital avenue for these organizations to connect, share experiences, and collectively brainstorm solutions to the rising tide of illiberalism across the African continent and potentially beyond.
The Eastern Caucasus is not merely participating; it is also looking forward to contributing to shaping the future of the platform. This proactive approach highlights our dedication to contributing meaningfully to the cohort’s objectives. We actively encourage the “flexing” of discussion topics to contemporary issues, which demonstrates a keen awareness of the evolving nature of illiberalism and the need for adaptable strategies.
Furthermore, the Eastern Caucasus’s proposed discussion points, focusing on “Economic Leverage as a Tool of Illiberal Influence” and “Digital Authoritarianism and Surveillance,” are highly relevant to the challenges faced by many nations grappling with illiberal tendencies. These topics acknowledge the multifaceted nature of the issue, extending beyond traditional political spheres to encompass economic dependencies and the increasing role of technology in governance and control. By bringing these critical themes to the forefront, the Eastern Caucasus aims to deepen the cohort’s understanding and enhance its capacity to develop effective countermeasures.
The readiness of the Eastern Caucasus to lead sessions and discussions signifies a strong sense of responsibility and a deep understanding of the urgency of the issue. Our active participation and willingness to share our expertise and insights from our operational context underscore the value of inclusivity in these networks. By providing a platform for think tanks working in diverse and often challenging spaces, the Atlas Network Foundation’s Illiberalism Cohort will foster a crucial environment for mutual learning, support, and the development of more robust and context-specific strategies to defend and advance liberal principles globally.