Minister Shahin Participates in Fourth “Defending Democracy” Forum in Barcelona, Spain

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates, Varsen Shahin, participated in the fourth meeting of the “Defending Democracy” forum, held in Barcelona on April 18, 2026, with the attendance of heads of state and government, ministers, and representatives of countries and international organizations.

The meeting was inaugurated by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who emphasized in his opening remarks the importance of defending democratic values and strengthening multilateral cooperation in light of growing global challenges. Representatives of participating countries followed with statements outlining their national positions and visions for enhancing the resilience of democratic institutions and addressing shared threats. The meeting took place amid escalating challenges facing the multilateral international system, including rising conflicts, violations of international law and human rights, and the spread of disinformation, underscoring the urgent need for collective action in defense of democracy.

Participants discussed ways to move from commitments to implementation, focusing on three main priorities: strengthening democracy, its institutions, and multilateralism; combating disinformation and digital threats; and addressing inequality and extremism. They also stressed the importance of rebuilding trust in public institutions, enhancing transparency, and ensuring a safe and fair digital environment.

In this context, participants highlighted the need to reform and strengthen the multilateral system to ensure respect for international law and to promote international peace and security. They also underscored the importance of supporting women’s empowerment and increasing their participation in decision-making positions, as well as addressing political and digital gender-based violence.

Discussions also addressed challenges related to digital governance, emphasizing the importance of combating disinformation, safeguarding the integrity of information, and ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of technology, alongside supporting relevant international initiatives.

Participants further stressed the importance of adopting comprehensive policies that promote social justice, equal opportunities, and youth engagement, while addressing the root causes of extremism. They also reaffirmed the need to support international efforts aimed at combating poverty and promoting economic justice.

The meeting concluded with the adoption of a final communiqué reaffirming participants’ commitment to defending democracy, human rights, and the rules-based international order, and calling for collective action to address challenges that undermine democratic institutions and public trust. The statement emphasized the importance of strengthening multilateralism and international cooperation, countering disinformation and the misuse of technology, promoting transparency and digital governance, and adopting more inclusive policies to address inequality and prevent extremism. It also highlighted the importance of engaging all stakeholders, including civil society and the private sector.

Participants agreed to continue the forum at its next meeting in New York, on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.