Democracy, youth, and reform in focus at UCP conference

Lahore: The Department of Political Science and International Relations at the University of Central Punjab inaugurated a two-day international conference titled “Contemporary Challenges to Democracy” on April 23, 2025, which concluded on April 24, 2025, at the university’s main auditorium.

The academic and intellectual gathering brought together prominent scholars, researchers, media representatives, and diplomatic figures from across Pakistan and abroad.

Professor Dr. Khalid Manzoor Butt, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, welcomed participants and emphasized the need for research-based inquiry into the challenges democracy faces today.

Keynote speakers included Dr. Hassan Askari Rizvi—eminent political analyst and former Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab—who spoke on civil-military relations, media, and democratic institutions, and His Excellency Per Albert Ilsaas, Ambassador of Norway to Pakistan, who highlighted the importance of international cooperation in democratic development.

The conference was graced by Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed as chief guest. In his address, he emphasized that “democracy’s threats can only be countered through intellectual freedom, institutional reforms, and youth engagement,” noting that educational institutions play a pivotal role in nurturing democratic values.

In his concluding remarks today, Professor Dr. Hammad Naveed, Pro-Rector of UCP, thanked all distinguished guests, speakers, and organisers, reiterating the university’s commitment to fostering academic dialogue and democratic engagement.

Over the two days, participants engaged in various sessions exploring both global and local challenges to democracy.