Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić welcomed the participants to the opening session of the World Forum for Democracy this morning.

In her speech, she said: “Democracy is in distress but remember what was achieved from nothing when Council of Europe was founded. We need young leaders to take a stand. There is hope in young people.”

The City of Strasbourg, the Region Grand-Est, the European Collectivity of Alsace and the French Government also addressed their welcome words at the opening Session.

160 speakers will debate “Democracy: a new hope?” during 3 days in Strasbourg.