March 3, 2025 | Milan, Italy – In a world where the fight for freedom and democracy faces unprecedented challenges, Atlas and the Global Democracy Coalition (GDC) are joining forces to host the Freedom Marathon 2025: Shaping a Global Coalition for Freedom. Taking place in Milan, Italy, on March 15, 2025, this pivotal gathering will bring together citizens, activists, policymakers, and thought leaders from across the globe to forge new strategies and alliances for the defense of democracy and human rights.
With democratic backsliding, rising authoritarianism, the power vacuum in the free world and the failure of global institutions to act decisively, the Freedom Marathon seeks to chart a new course—one that transcends national interests and builds a true international front for democracy and freedom.
An Unprecedented Forum for Change
The Freedom Marathon will serve as the European Dialogue within the broader Global Democracy Coalition Forum 2025. The event will explore how to systematically support freedom struggles and those facing oppression worldwide.
Key highlights of the event include:
- Keynote speeches from global leaders such as Salome Zourabichvili, President of Georgia, and Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, President-in-exile of Belarus.
- Panel discussions featuring renowned experts such as Carine Kanimba, spokesperson for the World Liberty Congress, and George Katrougalos, UN Independent Expert on the Promotion of a Democratic and Equitable International Order.
- Workshops empowering youth activists to take the lead in democracy movements.
- Consultations on building a new international coalition that transcends political polarization and inaction.
The event will culminate in a high-level discussion on Italy’s role in supporting global freedoms, featuring leading politicians and civil society leaders.
Why Now?
The Freedom Marathon 2025 comes at a crucial time. From Ukraine to Palestine, citizens have lost faith in the ability of world leaders to uphold core democratic values without bias. In an era of heightened polarization, it is imperative to explore alternative pathways—whether through reforming existing institutions, creating new coalitions, or expanding regional democratic alliances.
Join the Marathon
The Freedom Marathon will be held at Cascina Cuccagna in Milan from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Participants can attend in person or join digitally.
🔗 Register now: www.atlasmovement.org/freedom_marathon2025
For more information, visit www.atlasmovement.org or contact [email protected].
About Atlas and the Global Democracy Coalition
Atlas is a global political movement committed to uniting humanity against existential threats, including authoritarianism and democratic decline.
The Global Democracy Coalition (GDC) is a multi-stakeholder alliance of over 130 democracy organizations worldwide, dedicated to strengthening and protecting democracy globally.
Media Contact:
Andrea Venzon, Atlas’ Co-Founder
[email protected]
+39 3476453481
Press Inquiries: For interviews or further details, please reach out to the media team at [email protected].