Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney is bringing leaders together this week in a bid to reinforce the foundations of democracy.
A gathering of political, faith and community figures will focus on identifying threats to Scotland’s democratic values and setting out how to protect them.
The aim is to build a united front to defend shared principles from growing pressures at home and abroad.
The First Minister is seeking agreement on a core set of principles to act as a safeguard for the country’s democratic system.
The summit will revolve around four main pillars, each guided by a civic leader.
These are tackling inequality and discrimination, rooting out disinformation, rebuilding trust in politics, and protecting elections from interference.
There will also be a strong focus on encouraging more people to participate in the democratic process.
Swinney said the health of democracy is not something to take for granted.
He warned that global events show just how fragile democratic systems can become if not actively maintained.
Scotland, he said, is not immune to those risks.
He stressed the importance of leadership working together to meet the challenge head-on.
The First Minister believes that inclusive discussions now can help protect Scotland’s future.
He said misinformation, distrust and interference must be met with openness, accountability and unity.
He emphasised the responsibility of government to lead in this space but acknowledged it must be a shared effort.
Swinney described the event as a chance to lay down a lasting foundation of values in turbulent times.
He hopes the meeting will spark stronger public confidence in democratic institutions.
With divisions deepening around the world, Swinney believes Scotland must act decisively to uphold its democratic integrity.
He said bringing together diverse voices is vital to ensure decisions reflect the full breadth of society.
The outcome will help shape a roadmap for resilience in the years ahead.
Swinney wants to see clear commitments emerge that all sectors of society can rally behind.
His goal is to build a Scotland where democracy is more open, more inclusive and more resistant to threats.
