

How to build democracy — in an authoritarian country | Tessza Udvarhelyi
16 snips Jan 12, 2024
In this insightful dialogue, Tessza Udvarhelyi, a passionate activist and movement builder from Hungary, shares her experiences in navigating the thin line between dictatorship and democracy. She highlights the gradual erosion of democratic rights and emphasizes the importance of grassroots activism and community engagement. Tessza discusses the transformative power of movements like Cities for All, illustrating how even marginalized communities can reclaim their voice. With a focus on resilience and imagination, she inspires listeners to envision and strive for a more democratic future.
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Hungary's Democratic Decline
- Hungary's government has eroded democratic norms over 13 years, targeting vulnerable groups and suppressing dissent.
- This happened gradually, like a boiling frog, with increasingly restrictive laws and policies.
Democracy as a Verb
- Democracy is not a static state but an active process requiring continuous effort and engagement.
- It thrives on dissent, conflict, and change, not just consent and agreement.
Cities for All
- The Cities for All movement empowers homeless people to advocate for housing justice.
- This group emphasizes collaboration and gives homeless individuals a political voice.