In this high-intensity discussion at EDGE 2026 in Sydney, Maria Ressa, Jamil Mahuad and Francisco Santos — moderated by Larry Madowo — confront one central question: does democracy still matter in a world increasingly shaped by force, disinformation and technological acceleration?

From the weaponization of social media to the erosion of multilateral institutions, the panel explores the return of “might makes right,” the fragility of liberal democracy and the existential risks of nuclear, climate and AI escalation. The conversation moves between lived experience, geopolitical realism and moral conviction, offering a stark yet urgent call to defend truth, accountability and democratic values.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
• The erosion of trust begins with the erosion of shared facts
• Technology has amplified the speed and scale of disinformation beyond historical precedent
• Liberal democracy survives only if citizens actively defend institutions, rule of law and independent journalism