"Demokratiuka" in Kristiansand is an annual event held in the first week of May, dedicated to debate, development, and strengthening of human rights, freedom of expression, and democracy. This years event, running from 2. May to 8. May 2024, involved a variety of activities including seminars, workshops, meetings, and cultural performances, organised by local, regional, and international partners.

Organised by local groups like the University of Agder, ARKIVET Peace and Human Rights Center, and the Kilden Performing Arts Center, Demokratiuka aims to make Kristiansand a central place for these important discussions. One of the highlights is the European Conference on Democracy and Human Rights on 6. May. This conference covered current issues, including the war in Ukraine, the Middle East conflict, and new European rules on artificial intelligence and human rights.

Another highlight was presentations on democratic subjects provided by associates of the ValiDE project at UiA. ValiDE focuses on promoting democratic values and critical thinking among teachers, preparing them to foster such values in their classrooms. The ValiDE project is a cooperation between the University of Education Weingarten, Pedagogical University Krakow and UiA. Additionally, the KRS European Youth Forum took place on 4-5. May. This event is designed by and for youth, providing a platform for young people to discuss important issues related to democracy and human rights, and to create actionable documents for policymakers​.

The European Conference on Democracy and Human Rights took place in Kristiansand on May 6, 2024, as the centerpiece of Democracy Week. This year's theme was "Sustain and Defend Democracy and Human Rights in Europe 2024." The main goal of Demokratiuka is to make Kristiansand a center for democratic debate and development. By involving different sectors of society, the event seeks to strengthen democratic values, human rights, and freedom of expression. The diverse range of activities and the involvement of multiple partners solidifies the commitment to creating an inclusive and engaging environment for all​.

Link to “Demokratiuka” main page: https://www.kristiansander.no/demokratiuka