Around the world, democratic institutions are being weakened and the democratic space, not least for civil society, is shrinking. Sweden is convinced that democracy is the best foundation for a sustainable, secure, and stable society that can foster growth and economic prosperity. Therefore, the Swedish Foreign Service has launched a Drive for Democracy and is holding Democracy Talks around the world.

Youth involvement and participation is vital in preserving a democratic society. Democracy Talks in Manila will discuss how the youth today perceives the state of Philippine democracy and seeks to determine the role of youth voices in strengthening democracy. Democracy Talks in Manila is organized by the Embassy of Sweden in Manila, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), and the University of the Philippines - Center for Integrative and Development Studies (UP-CIDS).