News and Insights

Event: Toward democratic resilience: young people, trust & the infrastructure we need

Written by Verian Group | Aug 24, 2026, 4:22:58 PM

Join Verian and Tilting Futures at UNGA 2026: Building Democratic Resilience Through Trust

Young people across the G7 and EU are reporting historically low levels of trust in democratic institutions, while rising loneliness and social isolation are increasing vulnerability to disinformation and anti-democratic narratives. Research suggests that strengthening social connection and participation can help reverse these trends and build greater democratic resilience.

On 24 September 2026, Verian Group and Tilting Futures will bring together leaders from education, philanthropy, business and civil society for "Toward Democratic Resilience: Young People, Trust, & The Infrastructure We Need", an interactive working session during UNGA and Climate Week in New York. 

The session will explore the latest evidence on youth disconnection, trust and belonging, while fostering discussion on how institutions, educators, funders and civic leaders can work together to create the conditions for stronger democratic participation and engagement. Designed as a collaborative conversation, the event aims to move beyond understanding the challenge and towards identifying practical solutions and collective action.

Event details

  • Date: 24 September 2026
  • Time: 1:00–2:30 PM EST
  • Location: New York (details provided upon RSVP)
 

Panellists at this event include:

The session will feature contributions from distinguished leaders working at the intersection of democracy, education, media and social impact, including:

  • Dr Michelle Harrison, President and Founding CEO, Verian Group
  • Erin Lewellen, CEO, Tilting Futures
  • Christy Tanner, CEO and President, New York Public Radio
  • Mark K. Updegrove, Chairman and CEO, LBJ Foundation (Moderator)

 Explore more Verian Institute for Public Impact events.