Morning Plenary

Challenges in the International Context for Human Rights and Social Justice 

This session explores how rising authoritarianism, shrinking civic space, disinformation, and anti-rights movements are reshaping the environments in which social and behavior change efforts take place. Participants will examine strategies for building trust, resilience, and collective action in increasingly complex contexts, while considering the implications for advancing evidence-based, rights-centered approaches. The discussion will also explore whether democracy itself can be understood as a behavior that must be practiced, protected, and strengthened. 

Speakers: 

Dr. Orlando Francisco Quintero Arosemena, Executive Director Probidsida   

Silvio Waisbord, Professor of Media and Public Affairs, George Washington University   

Priyanka Kher, Chief Strategic Partnerships and Communications Officer, Breakthrough India