Miami Conference on Global Democracy

11:00 AM — Welcome Remarks

Shlomi Dinar, Dean, Steven J. Green School of International & Public Affairs, FIU

11:10 AM — Panel One: Political Systems and Prosperity: Are Democracies Better for Business and Economic Growth?

Do democracies create more stable and prosperous environments for business and economic growth? Drawing on academic research alongside the firsthand experience of business executives, this panel focuses on the implications of governance for corporate strategy and economic development. Panelists will examine how differing political systems impact economic growth and resilience, regulatory certainty, market access, contract enforcement, private enterprise, and reputational risk—and how companies can mitigate governance-related challenges while leveraging institutional advantages. The discussion will also explore actionable insights on how firms assess and navigate political environments, structure investments, and adapt operating strategies across diverse governance contexts.

Jeanette Smith, Department of Religious Studies, FIU

Mihaela Pintea, Department of Economics, FIU

12:30 PM — Panel Two: The Indo-Pacific and the Future of Democratic Alliances

This panel explores how partnerships among democracies in the Indo-Pacific, the United States, Europe and beyond can reinforce regional stability, economic resilience and shared democratic values. Participants will examine strategies for deepening cooperation on security, trade and technology, as well as addressing emerging challenges such as strategic competition and climate resilience. By highlighting successful alliances and identifying opportunities for new collaborations, the discussion will provide insights into how democratic nations can collectively navigate a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, ensuring that open, rules-based systems continue to thrive across the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Kristen Zgoba, Department of Criminology & Criminal Justice, FIU

Thomas Breslin, Department of Politics & International Relations, FIU
Michael Studeman, United States Navy Rear Admiral (Retired)

Brian Fonseca, Jack D. Gordon Institute for Public Policy, FIU

2:00 PM — Panel Three: After Authoritarianism – What’s Next?

Across the globe, authoritarian regimes continue to display remarkable resilience, even as social unrest, economic strain, leadership succession and shifting geopolitical realities expose underlying vulnerabilities. History nevertheless reminds us that political systems can change suddenly and unexpectedly, heightening the urgency of understanding how authoritarian rule may unravel. This panel examines potential pathways of political transition in states that have recently dominated global headlines, including Venezuela, Iran, Cuba and Russia. Panelists will analyze the institutional, socio-political and economic conditions that may enable, shape or obstruct post-authoritarian transformation. By comparing cases and identifying shared dynamics, the discussion seeks to illuminate risks, opportunities and implications for democratic change, regional stability and international engagement worldwide today.

Eugênia Fernandes, Department of Modern Languages, FIU

David J. Kramer, George W. Bush Institute

3:30 PM — Panel Four: The Declaration of Independence at 250: Constitutionalism, Democratic Resilience and the Rule of Law

This panel will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, exploring its profound impact on the U.S. Constitution and the development of democratic ideals and practices. In addition to celebrating these foundational American documents, the panel will explore the evolution of and challenges to democratic values. It will also delve into the global landscape of democracy with discussion of the challenges of democratic backsliding, the erosion of constitutional norms and the importance of upholding the rule of law. By bridging historical reflection with contemporary issues, the panel aims to foster a deeper understanding of the vital role that founding documents and other important legal instruments play in sustaining democratic governance.

Jessica Adler, Department of History, FIU

Clem Fatovic, Department of Politics and International Relations, FIU

4:45 PM — Summary Remarks

Juliet Erazo, Department of Global and Sociocultural Studies, FIU

4:50 PM — Closing Remarks

Megdalynn Fischer, Department of Public Policy and Administration, FIU