The post-Cold War order can no longer be taken for granted, and neither can the old ways of doing things. Autocrats have dropped all pretence of playing by the rules, and civil society is having to adapt to this reality.
Unlock, our annual two-day civic forum in Prague, is bringing together over 200 activists, journalists, content creators, tech innovators, and independent voices from more than 20 countries to share how they are adapting, transforming, and persevering in the face of a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape.
“Let’s create the spirit of Unlock together, a spirit rooted in appreciation and inspiration drawn from the amazing people with us today,” said Rostislav Valvoda, the Executive Director of Prague Civil Society Centre at the opening of Unlock.
Since 2018, Unlock has spotlighted emerging trends and inspiring stories at the intersection of activism, media, and technology across Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia. It serves as a space to exchange ideas and discover innovative ways to resist growing pressures, and to show that, even in the most challenging conditions, positive change remains possible.
Unlock offers a unique blend of lectures, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, content creation sessions, and cultural events that are designed to inspire participants and equip them with practical tools to adapt and thrive under growing pressure. Attendees hear directly from leading activists, journalists, and changemakers from the region, gaining insights into what works, what doesn’t, and how to navigate increasingly complex and restrictive environments. They can experiment with new approaches, develop strategies to strengthen their work, and find solutions to the issues that matter most to them. Unlock also fosters meaningful connections, enabling participants to meet peers and build networks that support their ongoing efforts. In our dedicated podcast and video studios, they can collaborate to produce impactful content that amplifies their voices and extends their reach.
Amid the rapidly worsening situation in Georgia and ongoing struggles for democracy in Moldova, Unlock features multiple speakers from both countries who are working to build freer, more transparent, and accountable societies. Joined by investigative journalists who have uncovered Moscow’s networks of influence and top policy experts, we’ll explore how to stay relevant and effective in some of the region’s most difficult and high-pressure environments.
