The Santiago Center places democracy at the heart of its mission, embracing it as a broad and dynamic concept that spans public discussions on governance, current events, politics, elections, and the evolving role of technology, including artificial intelligence, in shaping democratic processes. This comprehensive approach reflects the Center’s commitment to fostering informed dialogue and engaging diverse perspectives on the complex issues that define contemporary democracies.
Since its establishment, the Center has been a vibrant hub for promoting discussions on democracy in both national and international contexts. Such programs have included public lectures, conferences, expert panels, and webinars that address key challenges facing governments and societies worldwide. From examining responses to global crises like the Covid-19 pandemic to analyzing local political transformations in Chile and the region, the Center has brought together scholars, policymakers, and the public to engage in critical conversations.
Recent initiatives have explored a wide range of topics, including the impact of artificial intelligence on democratic systems, the global ramifications of U.S. foreign policy, and the challenges of constitutional reform in Chile. These discussions are complemented by collaborations with institutions such as Columbia’s Institute of Latin American Studies (ILAS), addressing pressing issues like crime governance in Latin America during the pandemic, economic crises in Argentina, and the 2019 social crisis that reshaped Chile’s political landscape.
By fostering dialogue across disciplines and borders, the Santiago Center aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of democracy as a living, evolving concept. This commitment to democratic engagement is a cornerstone of the Center’s work, alongside its other focus areas.
