From apathy to agency: Gen Z reimagines democracy
From apathy to agency: Gen Z reimagines democracy
Politics and geopolitics

Tue. December 9, 12:00PM

From apathy to agency: Gen Z reimagines democracy

A participatory  workshop where young changemakers, activists and policymakers imagine the future of democracy together

Democracy is sustained not by systems, but by citizens. Yet, across Europe, a growing number of young people feel that traditional politics no longer represents them.


This lunchtime workshop turns that frustration into fuel for change. Together with changemakers, activists, and policymakers, we’ll explore how the next generation is reshaping what participation means — from street movements to institutional innovation.


This event is a collaboration between TheMerode and Ashoka Participation Hub, bringing together our shared commitment to civic innovation and collective leadership. Together, we aim to spark conversations that connect generations and inspire new ways of shaping democratic life.

Expect an interactive format where ideas flow across generations: talks to spark reflection, followed by table discussions inviting every participant to take part. The goal? To imagine how democracy can become more inclusive, creative, and future-fit.


Join us for a lively, forward-looking session — and discover how curiosity, courage, and collaboration can turn apathy into agency.

speaker

Carlos Pérez Padilla

With over 11 years of experience in EU institutions, including the European Parliament, EEAS, and the European Commission, Carlos specializes in citizen engagement and democratic innovation. At the Commission’s Directorate-General for Communication, she works on European Citizens’ Panels and the new Citizens’ Engagement Platform, promoting inclusive participation in EU policymaking. She currently leads work on the Citizen Panel on Intergenerational Fairness, bringing together diverse voices to shape a more equitable future across generations. Known for her collaborative approach and creative problem-solving, she has extensive experience in diplomacy, communication, and stakeholder engagement.

speaker

Benjamin Van Bunderen Robberechts

Benjamin Van Bunderen Robberechts is an 18-year-old Belgian climate and children’s rights activist dedicated to creating a safer future for young people. After losing his friend Rosa in the 2021 floods, he founded Climate Justice for Rosa to raise awareness of the climate crisis. Known as a “climate diplomat” for bridging youth activists and policymakers, he has spoken at COP27, COP28, and the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child. As an EU Climate Pact Ambassador and advisor for CRIN, he continues to advocate for youth participation and climate justice.

speaker

Margarita Kaimaklioti

Margarita Kaimaklioti is a young liberal leader from Cyprus, currently working at the European Parliament and preparing to stand as a candidate in the Cyprus national elections in May 2026. As both a mother and the daughter of Cypriot refugees, she draws on her personal and political experiences to promote resilience, empathy, and inclusive leadership. A member of ELECTA, she is deeply committed to amplifying women’s voices in politics and building networks that help overcome systemic barriers. Through her work, Margarita strives to connect, empower, and inspire others to drive democratic change together.

moderator

Laura Batalla

Laura Batalla Adam leads the Participation Hub, Ashoka’s laboratory for democratic innovation that creates new architectures for participatory democracy, bringing citizens, changemakers, and policymakers together to tackle Europe’s most pressing challenges. Previously, Laura spent over a decade in the European Parliament advising Members of Parliament on diverse policy areas. She holds degrees in Political Science and Journalism and a Master’s from the College of Europe. A frequent public speaker and writer on European policy, Laura is also a member of international leadership networks such as the Marshall Memorial Fellowship.
Start
Tue. December 9, 12:00PM
End
Tue. December 9, 2:00PM
Format
TheMerode Talks
Language
English (US)
Guest allowed?
Yes, 1 per member

Address

Event
Place Poelaert, 6
1000 Brussels
Belgium
Parking
Parking Poelaert, Place Poelaert 1000 Brussels

Detailed programme

Welcome
Tue. December 9, 12:00PM
Start of the workshop
Tue. December 9, 12:30PM
Networking
Tue. December 9, 1:30PM
End
Tue. December 9, 2:00PM

last seats available