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

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.
GWO launches operations to address global water challenges
- 7 hours ago
Karachi braces for 39°C heat with high humidity
- 7 hours ago
ISIS commander arrested in joint Pakistan-Türkiye intelligence operation
- 2 hours ago
Thailand’s Opal Chuangsri crowned Miss World 2025
- 8 hours ago

Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani both blast home runs in first inning of Yankees-Dodgers
- 5 hours ago

No casualties reported as light earthquake hits Karachi
- 2 hours ago
Floods kill 151 in Nigeria’s Niger State, thousands displaced
- 7 hours ago

Chilean scientists develop probiotic to prevent stomach cancer
- 8 hours ago
Floods and landslides kill 5 in India
- 2 hours ago

Govt hikes petrol price by Re1 per litre
- 7 hours ago
Twin explosions hit Khyber Pakhtunkhwa amid rising security concerns
- 8 hours ago

Bangladesh Supreme Court reinstates Jamaat-e-Islami’s political status
- 4 hours ago