Defend Democracy, Empower Change
Tomorrow, the Irish public will go to the polls to choose a new Dáil. In this critical act of democracy, voters will choose a path forward for Ireland. As one of Europe’s strongest ‘Open Democracies,’ Ireland has the opportunity to embrace ideals that empower its populace, support climate justice, and drive economic inclusion. However, long-standing socioeconomic challenges are eroding trust in public institutions.
Recent surveys reveal an unsettling picture:
- Many believe policymakers prioritise corporate interests over public good.
- Nearly half think politicians would use their positions for personal gain.
- Public trust hinges on fairness, yet too many feel the rules don’t apply equally.
Our democracy is under strain. Behind Ireland’s reputation as an open democracy lies a growing alienation between citizens and the state. Disillusionment is especially stark among young people, as TASC’s own research shows. This disconnect is fertile ground for the rise of far-right ideologies and declining faith in democratic values.
At TASC, we refuse to stand by while trust in democracy crumbles. We’ve developed a bold, action-driven strategy to rebuild it:
- Cutting-Edge Research: TASC’s interdisciplinary research team identify the roots of mistrust and the barriers to genuine democratic participation. From improving the effectiveness of consultations to addressing systemic inequality, we uncover how civil society, media, and institutions can restore public confidence.
- Strengthening Participatory Democracy through Community Action: We create programs that demystify policymaking, combat disinformation, and encourage active engagement with democratic processes. We’re tackling the complex challenges posed by AI and digital policy, equipping civil society to defend democracy in a rapidly changing world.
But we cannot do this alone. Strong democracies are not self-sustaining—they require collective action and resources to persevere.
This is where you come in. Your donation directly fuels our mission to protect democracy, reduce inequality, and champion climate action. Together, we can ensure democracy works for everyone—not just the privileged few.
Join us in safeguarding Ireland’s democratic future: Donate to TASC today. Let’s prove that democracy is not just a system—it’s the foundation of a fair, inclusive, and hopeful society.