First Minister John Swinney will today host a major civic gathering in Glasgow focused on safeguarding and strengthening Scotland’s democracy.
The event will bring together political, faith and civic leaders to examine what holds the nation together and what could threaten those bonds in the future.
At a time when democratic values are being tested across the world, Scotland is choosing to take action.
Swinney has made it clear that government must listen, reflect and respond to the lived experiences of people across the country.
He said that building strong communities and fostering inclusion are essential pillars of a healthy democratic system.
The gathering aims to unite different voices under a common goal – to reaffirm the values that define Scotland as a cohesive, peaceful and fair society.
Attendees will include leaders from all major political parties, civic organisations, religious communities and grassroots groups.
It will be a rare opportunity for such a diverse group to come together not in opposition, but in shared purpose.
The conversation will go beyond politics and explore the root causes of division and how they can be addressed.
Swinney’s approach follows a series of visits across Edinburgh where he met with organisations leading on social inclusion.
He joined a roundtable at Tynecastle Park, where the Big Hearts Community Trust discussed football’s power to fight discrimination.
He visited the Good Faith Partnership to hear about the Warm Spaces initiative that helps people through the cost-of-living crisis.
At Broughton High School, he spoke with pupils about the importance of positive masculinity and respect in young lives.
These insights will feed directly into today’s discussions, ensuring that the agenda is shaped by real voices.
The list of participants reads like a cross-section of Scottish society, from youth groups to senior academics and faith leaders.
Organisations such as Police Scotland, the Electoral Reform Society, and the Scottish Refugee Council will all have a seat at the table.
Groups advocating for gender equality, disability rights and interfaith dialogue are also expected to play a key role.
This wide representation underlines the scale and seriousness of the conversation.
The aim is not just to talk about democracy, but to actively protect and future-proof it.
This is a chance to build consensus around what kind of nation Scotland wants to be – and what it must do to get there.
Swinney has said he wants to spark a collective response to the challenges democracy faces, grounded in shared values.
Today’s event marks the start of what the First Minister hopes will be an ongoing national effort.
It’s about creating a society where everyone feels heard, safe and empowered.
As Scotland looks to the future, this gathering could set the tone for a new chapter in democratic life.
