Lipset Lecture

This year’s Lipset Lecture featured Leopoldo López, a Venezuelan democratic leader, former political prisoner, and cofounder of the World Liberty Congress. His voice could not have been more timely.

At a moment of significant global uncertainty—marked by democratic backsliding, rising authoritarianism, conflict, and civic distrust—López spoke with moral clarity about the cost of losing democratic institutions and the courage required to defend them. Drawing from his lived experience, including years of imprisonment for standing up against repression, he reminded the audience that democracy is neither inevitable nor self-sustaining; it must be actively protected by engaged citizens, principled leaders, and international solidarity.

His remarks underscored that democracy is not an abstract ideal, but a daily practice grounded in human dignity, accountability, and the rule of law. In a time of global chaos, López’s presence at the Lipset Lecture served as a powerful call to action—urging us not to grow complacent, but to recommit to democratic values at home and abroad. A very timely message.