Within the framework of the 2025 International Democracy Day in Brussels (IDD Brussels), the EU-LAC Foundation, in collaboration with International IDEA, organised a special session dedicated to reflecting on the role of the forthcoming IV CELAC-EU Summit as an opportunity to strengthen democracy in both regions.
During the session, participants addressed the challenges that the Summit must take into account regarding democracy, the rule of law and human rights, as well as the key elements that the member states of the bi-regional partnership should debate in relation to this topic.
The event was moderated by Alberto Brunori, Executive Director of the EU-LAC Foundation, and featured a keynote speech by Laura Chinchilla, former President of Costa Rica. The panel also included contributions from Inma D. Alonso, Head of EU–Latin America and Caribbean relations and Development Finance at the Coordination Committee of Development Organisations; and Heike Schneider, Deputy Director of the Americas Division at the European External Action Service (EEAS).
Chinchilla highlighted that Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union “embody a shared set of political and social values that we must be willing to defend against destabilising forces.” She further emphasised: “Only through democracy can societies overcome their most serious threats. Firstly, because democracy is inclusive and enables all citizens to take part in public life. Secondly, because democracy is transparent and ensures that people are informed and protected against corruption or the abuse of power. And thirdly, because democracy and the rule of law safeguard the dignity of every individual, giving them a voice in shaping our collective destiny.”
For her part, Inma Alonso spoke in favour of “promoting constructive relations between the EU, Latin America and the Caribbean states and civil society organisations”, and of reinforcing a more strategic commitment. She also reminded the audience that “civil society is vital for democracy and must be recognised as indispensable public infrastructure and a public good. Its expertise, capacity and presence within communities are essential.”
In closing, Heike Schneider noted that multilateralism, the fight against organised crime, and democracy will be among the main priorities at the forthcoming meeting of heads of state and government. “I hope that from the Summit we can set in motion processes to continue promoting democracy,” she concluded.
The event served to highlight the importance of the EU–CELAC bi-regional relationship for strengthening democracy in the global context, contributing reflections that will enrich the agenda of the upcoming CELAC–EU Summit in Colombia in November 2025.
