At a pivotal historical juncture, the United States confronts renewed scrutiny over the strength and future of its democratic institutions. This lecture series assembles a set of diverse voices to assess whether American democracy is under strain, adapting to new realities, or entering a period of transformation. Beyond the domestic arena, the series also addresses the far-reaching global consequences of these developments. How do internal political tensions shape U.S. foreign policy and international engagement — including with Switzerland? What do they mean for global stability, economic cooperation, and the future of democratic norms worldwide? By combining critical perspectives with a broad analytical lens, the series invites students and a broader public to reflect on the past, present, and future of the American experiment at 250.

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250 Years of the United States: Public Lecture Series

Democracy Foundation Basel