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In Fall 2024, as global and domestic democratic systems faced mounting pressures, ICFRC convened a timely and dynamic series titled Democracy at a Crossroads.
Spanning September to November, the series featured films, panel discussions, international speakers, and cultural voices addressing threats to democracy and the future of civic life. Topics included democratic transitions in Bhutan and South Africa, media and elections, Christian nationalism in Hungary, and post-election analysis in the U.S.
The series was designed to spark critical thinking, elevate marginalized voices, and engage local and international communities in conversations that matter. The programs reached hundreds of participants across diverse sectors and were presented in collaboration with campus departments, media partners, and international organizations.
The Monk and the Gun: Bhutan’s First Election
Sunday, September 15
FilmScene, Iowa City
A screening of the 2023 film The Monk and the Gun, which explores Bhutan’s transition to democracy in 2006 through a fictional tale blending tradition, modernity, and satire. Set in a remote village during a mock election, the film humorously and poignantly reflects on democratic change in a deeply spiritual society.
Writing, Democracy, and Global Threats to Both
Wednesday, September 18
Iowa City Public Library
A conversation with three globally acclaimed writers reflecting on how democracy influences, and is influenced by, the written word. The panel addressed threats to democratic freedoms in Ukraine, India, and beyond—underscoring the role of artists and writers as both witnesses and catalysts for change.
Speakers:
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Christopher Merrill – Director of the International Writing Program and poet, journalist, and cultural diplomat. His global work spans over 50 countries and includes several award-winning publications.
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Lyuba Yakimchuk – Ukrainian poet, playwright, and performer whose work addresses war, trauma, and national identity. Known internationally for her Grammy performance and acclaimed poetry.
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Tabish Khair – Indian-Danish novelist, poet, and professor whose works explore extremism, identity, and postcolonial narratives. Teaches at Aarhus University, Denmark.
Election Watch 2024: Journalistic Experience from the Global Stage
Monday, September 23
Iowa City Public Library
This panel brought together international journalists to discuss media integrity, disinformation, and democratic accountability in election coverage. Drawing comparisons between the U.S. and their home countries, panelists revealed the challenges of ethical journalism under political pressure.
Speakers: (All fellows with the World Press Institute)
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Moderator: Gugulethu Mfuphi – South African journalist and host of KayaBiz on Kaya 959, Johannesburg.
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Anando Bhakto – Indian political journalist focused on elections and Kashmir for Frontline, The Wire, and others.
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Haruna Ibrahim – Nigerian senior digital journalist at BBC, covering accountability and governance.
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Ana Bazo Reisman – Peruvian data and politics reporter at El Comercio and contributor to France 24.
Manufacturing Consent: The Failure of EU Elections, Media, and the Public Sphere
Wednesday, October 9
Iowa City Public Library
Dr. Gross examined the EU's struggle to foster a cohesive public sphere, revealing how fragmented national media and reliance on social media hinder democratic consensus. He highlighted the role of media polarization in recent EU elections and what it signals for European unity.
Speaker:
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Dr. Peter Gross – Professor emeritus of journalism at the University of Tennessee, former director of UT’s journalism school, and expert on media systems in Eastern and Central Europe.
South African Democracy: Lessons from 30 Years
Wednesday, October 16
Iowa City Public Library
Marking 30 years since the end of apartheid, this conversation explored South Africa’s democratic evolution and what it can teach other nations. Topics included relational citizenship, white supremacy’s legal legacy, and postcolonial governance challenges.
Speakers:
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Dr. Brady G’sell – Cultural anthropologist at the University of Iowa whose work examines gender, kinship, and democratic participation in post-apartheid South Africa.
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Dr. Thuto Thipe – Historian and political theorist with expertise in race, land, and governance in Southern Africa.
Authoritarianism and Christian Nationalism in Viktor Orban’s Hungary
Friday, November 1
University of Iowa Old Capitol Museum
Novak analyzed Hungary’s political transformation under Viktor Orban, linking its illiberal democracy and state-sponsored Christian nationalism to global authoritarian trends. The event highlighted why Orban’s model resonates with some U.S. political groups today.
Speaker:
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Ben Novak – Journalist and doctoral candidate at Johns Hopkins University. Former New York Times reporter in Budapest and current researcher at the Central European University Democracy Institute.
Democracy’s Future in Iowa, the U.S., and Beyond
Wednesday, November 20
Iowa City Public Library
In the final program of the series, panelists offered post-election reflections on the state of American democracy and Iowa’s political landscape. The conversation addressed polarization, governance, foreign policy, and visions for civic renewal.
Moderator:
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Dimy Doresca – Director, UI Institute for International Business and Academic Director, Mandela Washington Fellowship.
Panelists:
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Sen. Janice Weiner – Iowa State Senator and retired U.S. Foreign Service Officer.
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Dr. Marina Zaloznaya – Professor of Sociology at UI specializing in corruption, political behavior, and authoritarianism.
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Dr. Chris Peters – Cardiothoracic surgeon and former Republican congressional candidate.
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Ijeoma Ogbonna – Educator and public speaker focused on civic engagement and racial justice.
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