“Can spiritual energy enhance democratic governance?”
Internationally acclaimed speakers, key opinion leaders and influencers, will explore the intriguing relationship between democracy and spirituality, at Costa Navarino, 11-13 October 2019. The annual weekend on democracy, returns for its fifth edition in partnership with the Athens Democracy Forum.
Guest speakers Brunello Cucinelli, Chairman and CEO of Brunello Cucinelli S.p.A., Prof. Angie Hobbs, Professor of
the Public Understanding of Philosophy at the University of Sheffield and Bernard Henri Lévy, philosopher, filmmaker and activist, will engage in insightful discussions, moderated by Serge Schmemann, Member of the Editorial Board, Chairman and Athens Democracy Forum Program Director, and Katrin Bennhold, Berlin Bureau Chief of The New York Times.
In recent decades, the structures of democracy have come under increasing threat from radicalism, populism and polarization. But for all its flaws and problems, democracy is still the most widely accepted form of governance. Despite the different approaches to spirituality in East and West, many artists and thinkers have asserted the need for a greater level of spirituality in democracy. At the very least, spirituality – not in a narrow religious sense but as a positive transformative personal experience – has the capacity to inform, refresh and even help heal democracy.
The insightful weekend is hosted at The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort and will feature book readings, yoga, and a series of curated cultural experiences including philosophy walks, olive oil tasting, art tours, as well as encouraging further interaction with the speakers.
The pristine seaside location provides an ideal autumn getaway with mild temperatures for swimming, enjoying
outdoor activities or a round at the destination’s awarded golf courses The Dunes Course and The Bay Course.
Participants can book their accommodation online or by contacting Reservations at The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort (tel. +30 2723 096000, reservations.romanos@costanavarino.com and mentioning the promotional code LPR).
Now in its seventh edition, the ‘Athens Democracy Forum’ held in association with The New York Times, will take place 9-11 October in the Greek capital, bringing together international business leaders, policy makers, and a broad variety of experts to discuss the state of democracy and what action it requires in the face of mounting challenges.
