🔴 Upcoming Interview: Dr. Ruth Ben-Ghiat Joins YCW to Talk Democracy, Propaganda & Global Leadership
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Ruth Ben-Ghiat, one of the world’s foremost experts on authoritarianism, propaganda, and threats to democracy, will be joining Young Citizens of the World (YCW) for a powerful and timely interview this coming Tuesday at 8:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Eastern.
This special conversation—led by students and teachers from our global network—comes at a critical moment. Around the world, democratic institutions are under pressure. Disinformation is spreading faster than ever. And young people are seeking clarity, truth, and hope.
Dr. Ben-Ghiat, professor of history and Italian studies at New York University, is the author of the internationally acclaimed book Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present and founder of the Lucid newsletter. Her work has guided millions in understanding how authoritarian regimes take hold—and how they can be resisted.
This YCW interview will be hosted by Filipe Dinis, former Chief Operating Officer of the Bank of Canada and one of Canada’s most respected public service leaders. Ambassador Bob Rae, Canada’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations and former Premier of Ontario, will also join us to introduce Dr. Ben-Ghiat and offer opening reflections on democracy and the role of civic education in strengthening our institutions.
🌍 This event is part of our broader mission to empower over 1.25 million students in 8,000 schools across all 50 U.S. states, Canada, and 37 countries with real-world conversations that matter.
Over the past five years, our students have heard directly from astronauts, Nobel nominees, national leaders, top artists, and grassroots changemakers. But today’s democratic challenges require a new kind of courage, and we believe this session with Dr. Ben-Ghiat will equip our young citizens with the tools to think critically, stand up for truth, and protect the values we all cherish.
🔗 The interview will be recorded and published on our website and YouTube channel (YCW World), and will be shared directly with thousands of teachers and classrooms around the world.
We invite all educators, students, and global citizens to tune in, reflect, and be part of this vital conversation.