Democracies Under Attack: From Crisis to Strategy

May 5–9, 2025 | Panajachel, Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Across the Americas, democracies are facing one of their most critical moments: authoritarianism is rising, institutions are weakening, and civil society is under attack. But we are not powerless.

From May 5–9, 2025, a diverse coalition of civil society actors from across the region will gather in Panajachel, Lake Atitlán, Guatemala, for a critical strategy convening.

This unique gathering, hosted and organized by FOCO – a Guatemala-based social research team – with the support of Global Exchange, is meant to be a turning point in how we organize collectively and an opportunity for participatory dialogue, collective strategy-building, and shared learning.

Why Guatemala?

Guatemala is at the heart of a regional democratic crossroads. In the face of elite corruption and institutional coups, this country has emerged as a powerful reminder that people’s movements, grounded in community-based resistance and Indigenous governance, can defend democracy even when the odds appear insurmountable.

We gather here to learn from Guatemalan movements, centering Indigenous leadership, community organizing traditions, and the power of collective action.

What will take place?

  • Regional and country-specific analysis of authoritarianism and resistance across the Americas.
  • Small-group deep dives into democratic breakdown and community-based alternatives.
  • Co-creating regional proposals for coordination and advocacy
  • Centering grassroots and Indigenous voices in building alternatives
  • A space to build trust, alliances, and momentum across borders

While this is a gathering of democracy leaders across the Americas, Global Exchange will be on the ground to document and share key moments and learnings. Stay tuned for ways to get involved.

Support Movement Leaders—Donate to the Scholarship Fund

Many of the most courageous and visionary defenders of democracy across the Americas face financial and political barriers to participation – and you can help.

Donating to our Scholarship Fund ensures that grassroots leaders, Indigenous organizers, youth activists, and frontline defenders can join us in Guatemala, regardless of resources.

Your support will directly fund:

  • Interpretation and accessibility needs
  • Airfare and travel assistance
  • Lodging and meals during the gathering

Every contribution helps create a more inclusive and powerful space for collective strategy and resistance.

Make a donation today to support democracy defenders across the Americas!

Together, we can make this gathering a space where all voices are heard, and no one is left behind due to lack of funding.

Background Reading & Tools

Dive deeper into Guatemala’s political context and the movement’s response: