The fact that democracy and freedom of expression are under threat globally has hardly gone unnoticed. Unfortunately, the negative trend continues to accelerate in the wrong direction. This, in brief, is the background to a major new democratic initiative now taking shape in Karlstad. A decision has been made to build Demokratiska – The House of Democracy, somewhere in central Karlstad.

Erna Group (formerly NWT Group) and its owning family have initiated the work to create Demokratiska — a long-term initiative for an open democratic society and freedom of expression. Together with several social actors, meetings and workshops have been held to capture good ideas. The goal is to create a physical place for meetings and learning in the service of democracy. A place for knowledge, dialogue and inspiration — a place for hope and a brighter future. Demokratiska will host a broad spectrum of activities, from exhibitions and democracy labs to research and a café.

The democratic decline among countries around the world has now been ongoing for 25 years. Among the indicators measured by V-Dem at the University of Gothenburg, those related to freedom of expression have deteriorated the most. Signs of democratic backsliding are also visible in Sweden, including increasingly hostile rhetoric and growing political polarisation. The defence of democracy cannot wait. For that reason, Demokratiska will begin launching activities and initiatives before the building is completed — starting, for example, with a media and democracy lab temporarily based at the Erna Group.

“Through our work at Erna Group, we are constantly reminded that independent and professional journalism is under threat from several directions. At a time when freedom of expression and democracy are under pressure, we both want and are able to take responsibility and do our part in strengthening democracy and freedom for future generations,” says Victoria Svanberg, Executive Vice President, Erna Group.

“Freedom of the press and freedom of expression — channelled through responsible media — are fundamental to thriving democracies. At a time when these freedoms are being questioned, we want to make a tangible contribution by creating a place where understanding and knowledge of these issues are at the center,” says Sture Bergman, President and CEO, Erna Group.

The ambitions for Demokratiska are high, with the goal of creating a destination with an international reputation. The building will have architectural height and work is underway to find the optimal location. The effort to strengthen democracy and freedom of expression cannot wait — it has already begun.