Democracy needs Participation - Security – Innovation – Democracy
Democracy means the power of the people. Every individual is part of the people. Power entails responsibility. Each of us must be aware that we are also co-responsible for the entire political and economic processes.
At a glance
- Democracy is our mission! A large point of our work therefore lies in promoting and preserving democracies – worldwide but also here in Germany.
- Participation is the most fundamental principle of democracy and freedom. We are convinced of this. In our country, it is mainly the democratic parties that enable political participation.
- Many democracies are under pressure. There are those who believe that autocracies are more efficient. That this goes hand in hand with the renunciation of freedoms and basic rights, is often overlooked.
- An essential element of democracies is a healthy culture of debate that deals with differences of opinion in open, respectful and tolerant manner. It needs to facilitate compromises, derive decisions and promote their acceptance.
- With our political education work, we strive to further develop the culture of debate and want to convince people to inform themselves and take on more democratic reesponsiblity.
Content
1. The heart of our democracy beats in parliaments
2. Inspiring more democratic responsibility through political education
3. Our offers and projects on the topic
4. Publications, events and media contributions on the topic
The heart of our democracy beats in parliaments
At Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, we believe participation is the fundamental principle of democracy and freedom. The heartbeat of our democracy resides in the parliaments, with democratic parties playing a key role in enabling citizens' political participation.
We understand that each democracy is unique, reflecting the distinct characteristics of its country. However, many democratic nations currently share a common challenge: they are under pressure. Parts of these societies, although a minority, express dissatisfaction with the state of democracy. In Germany, there's a rising belief in the efficiency of autocratic systems, overlooking the high cost paid under authoritarian regimes, such as the loss of freedoms and basic rights like property protection, co-determination, or pluralism.
We are committed to developing bold ideas and models for political participation within our representative democracy. Democracy thrives on pluralism, compromise, and a vibrant culture of debate. Our aim is to foster open, respectful, and tolerant discussions, leading to well-considered compromises and accepted decisions. This requires the continuous evolution of our debate culture, both offline and online, grounded in reliable information.
Inspiring more democratic responsibility through political education
Through our political education forums, analyses, contemporary historical research, and international experiences, we strive to engage more people in democratic co-responsibility. Our experts in Germany and across more than 100 countries play a vital role in persuading people of the importance and value of staying informed and actively participating. We constantly explore ways to remain competitive, balance speed with political participation, and enhance the allure of liberal democracy and open society over authoritarian models. From our Christian democratic perspective, we see our mission in strengthening both individual responsibility and the sense of community cohesion essential in every democratic country.
Our offers and projects on the topic
International offices and programmes
In our commitment to democracy, the rule of law, freedom and the social market economy, we always think in a networked and future-oriented way. For these reasons, the Konrad Adenauer Foundation maintains various programs and offices in numerous countries of operation.
International Media Program
Our offices in Johannesburg, Singapore, and Sofia spearhead the media program, which supports media entities in assuming their political responsibility and contributing to the development of democracy and the legal framework. The program particularly backs independent journalists who play a crucial role as “watchdogs,” fostering an independent and free media landscape and professional, value-oriented political communication between citizens and politicians.
International Rule of Law Program
Since 1990, the Foundation has enhanced its international democracy promotion and political dialogue with the global Rule of Law Program. This initiative advocates for the separation of powers, strengthening rule-of-law structures, an independent judiciary, and the protection of fundamental human rights. The six regional programs are based in Bogotá (Colombia) for Latin America, Singapore for Asia, Nairobi (Kenya) and Dakar (Senegal) for Sub-Saharan Africa (Anglophone and Francophone), Bucharest (Romania) for Southeastern Europe, and Beirut (Lebanon) for the Middle East/North Africa. The global work on the rule of law is coordinated from Berlin, focusing on global rule-of-law issues.
International Party and Political Dialogue
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung also focuses on democracy promotion at the international level, viewing political parties as vital actors in a vibrant and functional democracy. The Foundation supports democratic parties and politically engaged individuals, facilitating political dialogue and collaboration. Through local and international efforts, it creates platforms for dialogue among parties and their constituencies.
Event series
Numerous events centered around the theme “Democracy Needs Participation” are organized by the Foundation. These include the Berlin Legal Policy Conference, the Berlin Annual Review, Democracy Day, and the Municipal Congress. These events foster dialogue and engagement on critical legal and democratic issues.
Berlin Legal Policy Conference
The prestigious Berlin Legal Policy Conference, held annually at The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung's Academy, convenes high-ranking representatives from academia, the judiciary, and politics. They engage in dynamic panel discussions about current legal policy issues.
Berlin Annual Review
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung has initiated the Berlin Annual Review, a series dedicated to the Federal Constitutional Court and its role as the premier interpreter and protector of the Basic Law. This forum highlights the Court's most significant decisions from the previous year.
Democracy Day
In order to promote and defend the principles of democracy, September 15 was declared International Democracy Day by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, through its political education efforts, strives to contribute by educating the German populace, enabling them to stand up for our liberal democracy and actively engage in society and politics. Consequently, The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung is present with information booths in various German cities each year on September 15.
Municipal Congress
Annually, The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung organizes a nationwide Municipal Congress. This congress is designed to motivate individuals toward community-oriented local political action and inspire them to participate in local politics. The event offers opportunities to meet pioneering individuals and projects, encouraging engagement in local politics or neighborhood activities.
Podcasts, publication and website projects
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung has developed a variety of publications, website projects, and podcasts, focusing on different aspects of democracy and participation. These are some notable ones:
Defensible Democracy
The Russian attack on Ukraine has put the question of the defensibility of democracy at the center of public interest. Our collection of essays and major campaign are dedicated to the various threats facing our free society, not just from military power.
Learn more about the topic of “Defensible Democracy” or go directly to the essay volume “Die wehrhafte(re) Demokratie”.
Disinformation – Threat and Danger to Democracy and Society
Authoritarian states use disinformation to sway public opinion and destabilize democratic societies. In the digital age, disinformation has taken on new dimensions and poses a risk to our democracy. Our campaign is committed to fighting disinformation and promoting a resilient democracy.
Learn more about the topic “Disinformation – Threat and Danger to Democracy and Society”
Extremism
The Extremism project of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung serves as a comprehensive knowledge portal on “left-wing extremism,” “right-wing extremism,” “Islamism,” and “conspiracy theories.” The articles and analyses, mostly authored by renowned experts, delve into the complexities and nuances of these topics.
Election Analyses and Demoscopy
Our project “Election Analyses and Demoscopy” primarily focuses on the analytical examination of federal, state, and European elections, as well as the public's satisfaction with the democratic political system.
Learn more about the “Election Analyses and Demoscopy” project
Freedom of Expression and Press in Latin America
Our project on “Freedom of Expression and Press in Latin America” provides insights into the setbacks in freedom of expression and press in the region. You will receive comprehensive information about the current situation there. Special focus is given to topics such as “Disinformation,” “Journalism under Pressure,” and “Shrinking Spaces.”
Learn more about freedom of expression and press freedom in Latin America
Change in the culture of language and debate
We've observed a significant shift in language and debate culture. The tone of public discussions has become harsher and often crosses boundaries, whether in parliament or on social media. Our project page includes studies and expert conversations exploring this changing debate culture.
Human Rights : Inquired
In our podcast “Human Rights : Inquired,” we discuss current significant human rights issues with experts. We aim to clarify complex matters and provide background information not typically found in newspapers.
Seminar, didactic, and scholarship offers
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung offers an engaging doctoral program for those studying the political upheavals post the Soviet Union's collapse and the transition from authoritarian socialist regimes to democratic structures. Additionally, we highlight our numerous local political activities conducted as part of our political education work for various groups, including local decision-makers, interested citizens, and youth.
Doctoral Program “Democracies in Europe – Transformations after 1990”
The “Democracies in Europe – Transformations after 1990” doctoral program aims to delve into the essential questions of historical-political transformation research, focusing on the period after the Soviet Union's dissolution and the post-Soviet transformation processes in Eastern and Central European EU countries. The program primarily targets doctoral students in contemporary history and political sciences. Participants receive a scholarship as part of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung's doctoral funding program.
Local Political Education Offers
A key pillar in Germany's democratic system, local self-government is a crucial focus for the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung. Our online resource “Local Politics in Germany” provides not only information on key local political fields but also an extensive educational offering for different target groups. Whether for citizens interested in local politics, students, or local decision-makers in administration and politics, there is something for everyone.
Women's College
Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in politics, business, and society. Our diverse events encourage women to take on responsibility. Therefore, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung offers a nationwide seminar program specifically for women.
Prizes
The Konrad Adenauer Foundation awards the German Local Journalist Prize, one of the most prestigious prizes in the field of local and regional reporting. First awarded in 1980.
German Local Journalist Award
Local journalists and editors are pivotal in moderating local discussions and serving society and democracy. Through the German Local Journalist Award, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung supports young journalists in exceptional projects. Annually, the award recognizes editorial offices and newspapers that address complex issues, implement community-oriented concepts, or advocate for their readership.
Publications to the topic
Handbook on 2024 Presidential Elections in the Republic of North Macedonia
First edition
DemocrAIcy
Gesellschaftliche Chancen und Risiken Künstlicher Intelligenz im politischen Prozess
Enhancing Pacific Ecosystems for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Roundtable Policy Dialogue
Ciclo de charlas Hablemos de Futuro
La investigadora del CEP, Sylvia Eyzaguirre, presentó el libro Disparidad bajo la lupa. Una radiografía a las brechas de género en Chile.
75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Map of the Month 12/2023
Adobe Stock / vepar5
The Democratic Republic of the Congo before the election
The Democratic Republic of Congo with its 100 million inhabitants votes in December - an opportunity and a challenge
Taller “Comunas Inteligentes y Transparentes” reunió a los 32 municipios de La Araucanía
Encuentro fue organizado por la Fundación Chile Descentralizado, la Asociación de Municipalidades Región de La Araucanía y el apoyo de la Fundación Konrad Adenauer.
Premier
Tadeusz Mazowiecki. Pisma i dokumenty 1989-1990
Trends im [Nicht-]Vertrauen 2023
Bericht über den Stand des Misstrauens in der Slowakei. Eine Studie von DEKK Institut.
Army seizes power in Gabon
A military coup as a warrant of democracy and the rule of law?
IMAGO / APAimages
The Jordanian Paradox
Participation and control
Adobe Stock / Blue Planet Studio
“You don’t know what the future holds …”
Results of two representative trend surveys
Lanzamiento Premio mejores Gobernantes 2020-2023: evaluación por indicadores
DPM
Souveräne Repräsentation
Autorität und Mandat
Flickr / Commonwealth Secretariat / CC BY-NC 2.0
Elections in Sierra Leone in the context of geopolitical instability
Julius Maada Bio was re-elected as Sierra Leone's head of state on June 24, 2023, to lead the country of nearly 9 million people through tumultuous times
Pixabay Geralt
ChatGPT in der Schule.
Künstliche Intelligenz als Herausforderung für den Unterricht
70 Jahre Europa. Wie wurde die Europäische Union zu dem, was sie heute ist, warum brauchen wir sie?
Veranstaltungsbericht zu Ingo Espenschieds "dokulive" 70 Jahre Europa" am Kreisgymnasium Neuenburg am 3. Juli 23
Die Schweiz. Zwischen eidgenössischer Neutralität und europäischer Integration
Veranstaltungsbericht zum Seminar vom 23. bis 25. Juni 2023 in Eriskirch am Bodensee (bei Friedrichshafen)
IMAGO / Xinhua
Malaysia five years after its democratic breakthrough
The recognizable dawn of a new Malaysia
IMAGO / NurPhoto
Gubernatorial elections in Mexico
Clear results and no surprises
Events on the topic
Jan
30
2024
Jan
01
2025
VERANSTALTUNGEN ZUR KOMMUNALPOLITIK
Angebote der Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung rund um die Kommunalpolitik.
Mar
08
2024
Nov
16
2024
Bürgermeisterinnen Mentoring-Programm 2024
"Mehr Frauen in die Rathäuser"
Mar
12
2024
Apr
30
2024
Vom Grundsätzlichen zum Praktischen
Online-Reihe zum Grundsatzprogramm der CDU
Apr
19-21
2024
Herausforderungen christlich-demokratischer Politik heute – Strategien für morgen VI
Ein überregionales Seminar der Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e.V.
Event Reports on the topic
Staat und Verwaltung effektiv gestalten
Europa heute mit Prof. Dr. Hans-Gert Pöttering
Braucht unsere Demokratie einen Neustart?
Eröffnung des neuen Debattenforums ANSICHTSSACHE
Das Grundgesetz für dich und mich
Grundrechtearena an der Trude-Herr-Gesamtschule in Köln
Jahresauftakt zu 75 Jahre Grundgesetz
Alexander Strecker
Erfolgreiches Zeit-, Selbst- und Stressmanagement in der politischen Praxis
Workshop mit Alexander Strecker
Erich Westendarp auf Pixabay
Die europäische Stimme der bürgerlichen Mitteparteien
EVP: Die proeuropäische Kraft im Europäischen Parlament
Ulf Dahl/Kieler Nachrichten
" For mind and heart to recognise, understand and learn"
The winners of the German Local Journalism Award 2022 were honoured in Kiel
Niedersachsens Demokratie vor Ort
Tagesfahrt ab Oldenburg nach Hannover
Europa vor der Wahl - Rumänien
Online Diskussionsreihe zur Europawahl 2024
Tag der Demokratie 2023
Europa vor der Wahl
Martin Reuber
100 Jahre Hitler-Putsch
Was Demokratie und Rechtsstaat daraus lernen können?
#FreiRäume – Deine, Meine, Unsere?!
JugendpolitikTag mit 260 Schülerinnen und Schülern am Gymnasium Norf in Neuss
KAS/Christiane Stahr
„Widerstand aus christlicher Überzeugung“: Dietrich Bonhoeffer und die Bekennende Kirche
Forum 20. Juli 1944: EKD-Ratsvorsitzender a.D. Wolfgang Huber sprach über die evangelische Kirche in der NS-Zeit sowie den widerständigen Theologen Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Thomas Ehlen / kas.de
ChancenZeit
Eine Bilanz des Königsteiner World Cafés 21. Juni 2023 in der Bischof-Neumann-Schule
Dirk Beichert
Demokratie und Freiheit schützen!
Eine Bilanz der Hallgartener Tagung der Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit und der Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung am 7. Mai 2023
Thomas Ehlen /kas.de
ChancenZeit
Eindrücke von dem Wiesbadener Hauptstadtforum 28. April 2023
Gemeinsam zu einem größeren „Wir“
Landeshauptstadtforum "ChancenZeit" in Nordrhein-Westfalen
KAS/Christiane Stahr
Vom Krisenjahr 1923 ins 21. Jahrhundert: Bedrohung und Selbstbehauptung der liberalen Demokratie
Bericht über die wissenschaftliche Konferenz zum Krisenjahr 1923 und die politische Diskussion zu den Gefahren für die liberale Demokratie heute
KAS
Stress Test for Democracy - Fighting Disinformation and Narratives
Workshop Cafe Kyiv
Media library
How should Parliament work?
Please enjoy this superb video by our partner organisation OUTA on a) how SA's government works, b) why parliament is failing, c) what parliament should do and d) how to fix SA.
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Direct Talks with MPs Year 2 EP 1-6
The Democratic Youth Network sits down and discusses with Members of the Parliament about many agenda, legal provisions, and policies significant for the development of Thailand.
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Jahresbericht 2022
Vor dem Hintergrund des Krieges haben sich unsere Kernthemen (Sicherheit, Innovation sowie Repräsentation und Partizipation) im vergangenen Jahr abermals in höchstem Maße bewährt.
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pixabay
Neues Schuljahr, alte Probleme?
Das neue Schuljahr hat in Thüringen begonnen. Dazu wollen wir diskutieren: Was passiert bei der nächsten Coronawelle im Herbst und Winter? Bleiben die Schulen wirklich offen?
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