Halifax, Nova Scotia — As part of its commitment to community outreach in Nova Scotia, HFX will be holding a public panel about the choices now facing the world’s democracies and their potential impact on global security.

The discussion takes place the day before Halifax International Security Forum begins its three-day annual event at the Westin Nova Scotian Hotel.

“Democracy is facing a multi-front attack on nearly every continent. It is also under threat from individuals and political parties from within democracies themselves,” said HFX President Peter Van Praagh. “Here in Halifax, political decision-makers, senior military officers and thought leaders will have to choose whether they stand together against these challenges or go down the path of division. Their choice will have a profound effect on the future of our rules-based international order.”

“We’re pleased, with the help of our steadfast community partners, SMU and Dalhousie, to get the discussion started this Thursday,” added Van Praagh.

The panel will take place on Thursday, November 21st in the McNally Theatre Auditorium, Saint Mary’s University, 923 Robie Street. Doors will open at 6:30PM.

The event will be moderated by Michael Serapio, award winning journalist and lead anchor at CPAC. Panelists are Dr. Janice Stein, Belzberg Professor of Conflict Management, University of Toronto; Dr. Luis Rubio, Chairman, México Evalúa; H.E. Kolinda Grabar-Kitarovic, Fourth President, Republic of Croatia; and Mr. Andriy Shevchenko, Head of Mission in Ukraine, Ukrainian World Congress.

“With the U.S. election results top of mind for so many, this year’s panel offers us a unique chance to reflect on the next chapter for both democracy and global security,” says Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President and Vice-Chancellor of Saint Mary’s University. “We are proud to welcome distinguished delegates and community members to our campus for this timely conversation, made possible by our ongoing partnership with Dalhousie University and the Halifax International Security Forum.”

“We’re excited to once again partner with SMU and the Halifax International Security Forum, offering our local communities a unique chance to engage with international delegates on issues that shape our world,” says Dr. Kim Brooks, President and Vice-Chancellor of Dalhousie University. “This year’s panelists bring invaluable insights, and we’re eager to explore what the future holds for security and democracy in the months and years ahead.”

HFX is an independent, non-profit, non-partisan organization based in Washington, DC.  Halifax International Security Forum is made possible by the generous support from its partners, including the Government of Canada and Club HFX: The Pro-Democracy Business Group.

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For more information, please contact:

Robin MacLachlan, Communications Manager, communications@halifaxtheforum.org