About us
Who we are?
The Tocqueville Foundation was founded in 2012 by Jean-Guillaume and Stéphanie de Tocqueville to keep his intellectual legacy alive and create around his ideas and his home in Normandy a dynamic community of values, initiatives and friends dedicated to the empowerment of civil society, and the resolution of the vital problems facing our democracies.
A triple observation sparked our determination to act:
First, the increasing need to defend democracy against dictatures and “democratorships” and re-establish political liberty and free civil dialog as a central stake for the 21st We need to move beyond the dogmatic comfort governing elites have entertained and look for a common ground, a consensus against the rise of extreme ideologies polarizing political and social debates.
Then, the deep belief that a profound civil society engagement, coupled with collective thinking, co-construction and a robust, but always courteous confrontation of opinions will allow us to craft solutions on the major issues of our societies.
Finally, the essential role of young people in the resolution of issues and the reflection around them
DISCOVER
Vision & Mission
The purpose of the Tocqueville Foundation is to bring Alexis de Tocqueville’s intellectual legacy to life. Since he viewed democracy not merely as a political regime, but as a dynamic system fueled by civil society, our mission is to strengthen the soft power and influence of civil society in public life.
Vision
Defend democracy and nurture the transatlantic relationship, inspired by Alexis de Tocqueville’s intellectual vision. This vision upholds the importance of independence of thought, the protection of individual and collective freedom, and the active participation of citizens in public life. Rooted in these values, we aim to strengthen the dialogue between Europe and America and to reaffirm our shared commitment to open, pluralistic, and resilient democratic societies.
Mission
Transmit to young people a passion for democracy.
Convinced that democratic engagement must be learned and nurtured, we emphasize the importance of passing democratic values to younger generations. To support this, we offer training sessions for teachers inspired by Alexis de Tocqueville’s thought—bringing his legacy to life by awakening a new generation of committed citizens.
Debate openly with all.
Overcoming disagreements through dialogue and exchange to build consensus.
We organize conferences and roundtables that bring together diverse speakers to collectively reflect on today’s major democratic challenges, with a focus on fostering vibrant transatlantic dialogue. This diversity of backgrounds and viewpoints enriches debate and fuels collective reflection.
Act with civil society to defend democracy and freedom.
By supporting civic and philanthropic initiatives, we promote lasting social impact and help develop civic spirit, initiative, and a sense of responsibility among citizens.
Key Figures
Our Impact
People have participated in the Tocqueville Conversations over the past 6 years.
An ambitious event allowing a collective reflection on the challenges of democracy.
Students involved with NGOs, coached by employees of partner companies, for the Tocqueville Challenge.
An event to promote the development of projects of about ten NGOs.
emblematic winners of the Prince’s Prize committed to the advancement of philanthropy.
An event rooted in modernity and rewarding social innovation.
Students reached through the Tocqueville Academy, a program to raise awareness of democratic values among future generations.
An initiative fostering civic engagement and democratic awareness among young people.
People have participated in the Tocqueville Conversations over the past 6 years.
Students involved with NGOs, coached by employees of partner companies, for the Tocqueville Challenge.
An event to promote the development of projects of about ten NGOs.
Emblematic winners of the Prince’s Prize committed to the advancement of philanthropy.
An event rooted in modernity and rewarding social innovation.
Students reached through the Tocqueville Academy, a program to raise awareness of democratic values among future generations.
An initiative fostering civic engagement and democratic awareness among young people.
THEY TRUST US
Our Partners
