forbes.com
Keseb: Building a Transnational Pro-Democracy Network
Yordanos Eyoel founded Keseb in 2022 to build a transnational civil society ecosystem supporting democracy; it uses fellowships, research, and narrative work to foster collaboration among democracy champions in Brazil, South Africa, and the U.S., countering global anti-democratic trends.
- What is Keseb's core innovation in addressing the global rise of anti-democratic forces?
- Keseb, founded in 2022 by Yordanos Eyoel, builds a transnational network of "democracy champions" to counter global anti-democratic trends. It uses a multi-pronged approach, including fellowships, research, and narrative building, focusing on Brazil, South Africa, and the U.S. Keseb supports 12 groups of fellows, providing financial capital and community building.
- How does Keseb's fellowship program contribute to building a transnational pro-democracy network?
- Inspired by the global spread of anti-democratic tactics, Keseb aims to create a pro-democracy network. It leverages strategies from social innovation, network building, and think tanks to support democratic innovators and foster cross-border collaboration. This approach contrasts with primarily defensive democracy work, emphasizing a forward-looking, proactive vision.
- What are the potential long-term impacts of Keseb's approach on the global landscape of democracy?
- Keseb's model suggests a shift in pro-democracy efforts towards transnational collaboration and proactive innovation. By supporting "democracy champions" across diverse contexts, it seeks to cultivate a global movement that addresses both the operational challenges and the broader vision of inclusive democracy. This could lead to new models of democratic engagement and more resilient civil societies.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing consistently emphasizes Keseb's innovative approach and positive vision. While showcasing achievements is understandable, this framing might unintentionally downplay the challenges faced by democracy globally. The headline (if any) and introduction likely reinforce this positive focus, possibly impacting public understanding by presenting an overly optimistic picture.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and informative, employing positive descriptors like 'innovative' and 'champions.' However, repeated use of positive framing could subtly influence reader perception. Using more balanced language that acknowledges challenges alongside achievements would strengthen neutrality. For example, 'innovative' could be replaced with 'novel' or 'pioneering' to avoid overly positive connotations.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Yordanos Eyoel's perspective and Keseb's work, potentially omitting other significant initiatives or perspectives within the broader democracy reform movement. While acknowledging limitations of space, a broader overview of the field could enhance the article's completeness. For example, mentioning other transnational organizations working on similar issues would provide more context.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a dichotomy between 'democracy defenders' and 'democracy champions,' suggesting a simplistic view of the complexities within the field. While the distinction highlights Keseb's focus on building a positive vision, it risks overlooking the importance of defensive measures in safeguarding existing democratic institutions.
Gender Bias
The article focuses on Yordanos Eyoel's leadership and vision without explicitly addressing gender representation within Keseb or the broader democracy reform movement. While not inherently biased, including information on the gender balance of leadership within Keseb or among the fellows would provide a more complete picture.
Sustainable Development Goals
Keseb's work directly supports the strengthening of democratic institutions and promotes inclusive governance, which are central to SDG 16. By fostering collaboration among democracy champions, they contribute to more effective and responsive governance structures. Their focus on building a pro-democratic network counters anti-democratic forces and promotes peace and justice.