Embedded Files
Head of Global China Program, Article 19; Co-Founder, Safeguard Defenders
"I am grateful to have been part of the Democracy Defenders in Exile series, the value of which rings loud today amid global democratic backsliding and the assault on universal norms. This course is applied political science education at its best, merging sound theory with testimonials from practitioners. I wish I had had a course like it when I was in school. I was particularly impressed with the students and their engagement with complex topics. It gives me hope in the next wave of democracy defenders that there are courses like this out there, exposing students to difficult challenges and equipping them to consider innovative approaches to promoting democracy and protecting human rights."
Samuel ChuPresident, Campaign for Hong Kong
"My encounter with the Democracy Defenders in Exiles class at Notre Dame was deeply moving and unexpectedly reciprocal. What began as an interview and conversation became a shared exploration of how democracy is lived rather than taught — how trust, courage, and imagination take root in ordinary people. Traveling to meet with the students revealed how the work of building solidarity and democratic imagination is always generational, relational, and alive. Their essays reflect not only understanding but transformation: they did not simply learn about Hong Kong, but used our encounter as a mirror for their own moral and civic imagination.”
Author, Uyghur Advocate, Worker Rights Consortium
"The students are extremely lucky to have Professor Victoria Hui as their teacher. Over the past twelve years of my advocacy work, I’ve visited many universities and spoken in countless classes—probably seven or eight as a guest lecturer so far. But my recent visit to the University of Notre Dame truly left one of the strongest and most positive impressions.Even before my visit, I reviewed the syllabus—not only for my own session but for the entire course—and I could see how thoughtfully it was planned. It’s rare to find a professor who combines direct experience with such deep, nuanced knowledge of China’s current political situation and of related global issues. I really want to applaud Professor Hui for that—and also all of you. I wish I had Prof. Hui as my professor when I was in school.
The way she designed the syllabus and coursework really supports your academic growth. When I was interviewed by you during class, I was struck by how thoughtful and original your questions were—many were actually better than the ones I’ve received from prestigious news outlets.
I’ve become so used to answering the same questions hundreds of times, but your reflections and essays truly surprised me. As I was reading through them, I kept thinking, “Oh wow, I didn’t realize people noticed that,” or “I’m glad someone picked up on that point from my book or the interview.” Your questions came from such unique angles—it was refreshing and meaningful for me."
Georgia's Minister for Defence (2015-16); Chairperson, Civic IDEA
"Engaging with the Global Struggles for Democracy course at Notre Dame was a deeply rewarding experience. What made this experience particularly impactful was the sense of dialogue rather than distance. Too often, discussions about countries facing democratic backsliding are framed as case studies—distant, analytical, and detached. In this classroom, the approach was different. Students engaged not only with the facts, but with the human dimension of these struggles. That shift—from observation to connection—is powerful. It creates space for empathy, but also for responsibility. In that sense, the course does something essential: it turns learning into a form of engagement with the world."
Former Sikyong, Central Tibetan Administration in-exile
"This class is important. You learn about theory in school, but until you also learn from reality, you won’t be fully equipped for life moving forward. What Prof. Hui is doing here is giving you life lessons by bringing in people who have struggled with the harsh realities of repression. This class is special, and you are special."
Victoria CárdenasNicaraguan businesswoman and human rights advocate; Inspired Leadership Initiative Fellow
Juan Sebastián ChamorroPre-Candidate for Nicaraguan President (2021); Visiting Fellow, Central American Politics Consortium (CAPC), Tulane University
“It was a pleasure to participate in these two classes. The first day’s format was especially well designed, with students leading the Q&A sessions. Student interviewers engaged us directly with prepared questions, while their classmates participated from the audience. This created a fluid and dynamic conversation where students, panelists, and guests were all enriched by the exchange. The questions were thoughtful throughout, and the format encouraged genuine dialogue rather than a one-sided presentation.
The second day’s format was new to us. Students first prepared written memos and then delivered oral presentations directly to us, offering concrete recommendations based on their analysis. We were impressed by how well prepared most of the students were and by their ability to engage seriously with complex issues. This format helps them develop the skills needed to think critically, communicate clearly, and present ideas on real-world challenges.
It was a meaningful experience to be part of this program.”
Former Senior Researcher, Human Rights Watch and Freedom House
"At a time when many young Americans have lost confidence in democracy, Professor Hui’s class is particularly needed in showing that, despite the current and often frustrating shortcomings of democracy, it remains a way of governance worth believing in, actively participating in, and vigorously defending. I was honored and grateful to be part of this endeavor. I was struck by the seriousness with which the students approached their assignments. Their curiosity about what it means to live under authoritarian rule was genuine and searching, and their empathy for those who endure repression was evident in their thoughtful questions and reflections. Many expressed concerns about the state of democracy in their own country and a determination to play a role in defending it, however small. Seeing this level of intellectual and moral engagement among the students gives me faith that democratic values will continue to endure—even in a time of uncertainty and doubt."
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