Barcelona is preparing to host one of the most relevant international gatherings of the year regarding cooperation, human rights, and institutional strengthening: the World Summit on Governance and Democracy Barcelona 2026. Organized by the Instituto Europeo de Voces Democráticas (European Institute of Democratic Voices) and chaired by Daniel Fernando Mejía Lozano, this initiative seeks to consolidate a common narrative between Latin America and Europe in the face of current geopolitical and social challenges.
The event will bring together former presidents, former vice presidents, parliamentarians, academics, indigenous leaders, business figures, and representatives of civil society organizations from more than a dozen countries. Its development spans three key days: a first stage on October 29 and 30 in Barcelona—featuring activities at Espai Línia and the Autonomous University of Barcelona, as well as an institutional visit to the Parliament of Catalonia—and a final session on November 2 in Strasbourg, within the European Parliament.
A Multi-Sector Space for Global Dialogue
The Summit has been conceived as a platform for internationalization that transcends discursive exchange to promote strategic alliances and lasting institutional relations. Among the prominent figures participating in its program are former Colombian President Ernesto Samper Pizano and former Peruvian Vice President Marisol Espinoza, alongside congress members, legal experts, and human rights defenders.
Likewise, the gathering features a strong multi-sector perspective thanks to the participation of business chambers linked to various regions, international cooperation networks such as CONEXX-EU, and representatives of Latin American indigenous communities, who contribute their vision on the defense of territories and collective rights.
The Fundamental Role of Press Freedom and the Journalistic Voice
Within the official program, press freedom and reporting occupy a highly relevant space. The working tables dedicated to this field address critical issues such as informational independence, the safety of communicators, the fight against disinformation, and the indispensable role of journalism in defending fundamental rights.
In this context of debate and professional analysis, the participation of Tony Avilés, Journalist, member of the General Council of the Journalists’ Union, and correspondent in Spain for Travellers Times, stands out in a special way. His intervention in the congress is fully supported by Dalton Zahir, Director of Travellers Times, who endorses his presence in this major international forum aimed at examining current challenges facing the media and freedom of expression, highlighting the reality of communicators, and strengthening bridges of collaboration between professionals from both sides of the Atlantic.
Towards Sustainable Cooperation
Beyond conferences, the central purpose of the Summit is to transform dialogue into concrete actions. As underscored by the organization, the goal is for social organizations to find suitable interlocutors, for the business sector to identify new opportunities, and for territorial projects to access international channels of cooperation and development.
With an agenda integrating politics, community participation, academic rigor, and journalistic commitment, the World Summit on Governance and Democracy Barcelona 2026 establishes itself as an essential meeting point to build, from a foundation of diversity, a future based on peace, social justice, and respect for human dignity.
