International Democratic Education Conference (IDEC) - 2026

​International Democratic Education Conference (IDEC)
A global gathering for anyone curious about education
Rooted in freedom, participation, and shared responsibility
 
Each year, IDEC brings together people of all ages, backgrounds, and experience, from around the world to explore what democratic education looks like in practice—and what it can become. IDEC is open to everyone. You don’t need credentials, titles, or prior experience—just curiosity and a willingness to listen, share, and participate.
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What Is Democratic Education?
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Democratic education is grounded in the belief that learners of all ages deserve voice, agency, and real participation in shaping their learning environments. At IDEC, democratic education means:

• Learning driven by curiosity and intrinsic motivation

• Shared decision-making and self-governance

• Respect, trust, and responsibility within community

• Education as a lived democratic process—not just a theory

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What Happens at IDEC?
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IDEC is not a traditional conference. There are no keynote hierarchies or passive audiences.
Instead, participants co-create the experience through:

• Workshops and conversations

• Open spaces and spontaneous sessions

• Community meetings and democratic processes

• Story-sharing, questioning, and reflection

Youth and adults participate side by side, each bringing their own perspectives and experiences.
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A Truly Global Community
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IDEC has been hosted in many countries across continents, reflecting the diversity of cultures, languages, and educational approaches around the world. What connects us is not a single model, but a shared commitment to education grounded in democracy, dignity, and trust. 
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Who Is IDEC For?
IDEC is for:

• Youth & Adults 

• Educators and school founders

• Parents and caregivers

• Researchers, students, and activists

• Anyone exploring new ways of learning and living together

If you’re interested in self-governance, democratic process, and education as a shared human endeavor, you belong here.
 
Join the Conversation
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IDEC is more than an event—it’s a living, evolving community. Come learn, question, participate, and help shape the future of education. Everyone is welcome.
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