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 programmes and offices in numerous countries of operation.
International Media Programme
Our offices in Johannesburg, Singapore, and Sofia spearhead the media programme, which supports media entities in assuming their political responsibility and contributing to the development of democracy and the legal framework. The programme 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 Programme
Since 1990, the Foundation has enhanced its international democracy promotion and political dialogue with the global Rule of Law Programme. 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 programmes 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
KAS MDPD
KAS MDPD
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. To this end, current studies and survey data from the areas of political behaviour, voting behaviour, party research and extremism research are collected, compiled, evaluated and published in various sections on the website.
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 a doctoral programme for doctoral candidates who are interested in the historical influences, current challenges, and future prospects of liberal democracies in Europe. The aim is to gain new insights through interdisciplinary research and to contribute to the understanding of current problems. 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 Programme “Democracies in Europe: Influences and Perspectives”
Unknown photographer, Reproduction by Lear 21
Unknown photographer, Reproduction by Lear 21
How can democracy remain resilient amid changing societal and technological conditions? The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung’s doctoral programme is aimed at scholarship holders whose research projects address the challenges and prospects of European democracies. Guided by an interdisciplinary advisory board, the program offers academic support, practical input, and assistance in launching professional careers.
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 programme 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 on this topic
alphaspirit / smarterpix
Voting motives in the 2025 federal election
Results from representative surveys on reasons for voting and important influencing factors among voters
smarterpix / digitalgenetics
Better performance – Less static: Why Germany’s federal administration needs reform
More pooling of resources – fewer federal agencies – and a “Whole-of-Government” ap-proach
The 2025 Chiang Mai Mayoral Election
Case Studies on Candidates, Campaigning, and Changes in Thailand’s Local Elections and Decentralisation
"Christian Democracy - The Third Way"
English Addendum to "Kristillisdemokratia – kolmas tie" (Eds. A. Lyytikäinen & T. Terä; 2025)
IMAGO / Mike Schmidt
No Alternative: The AfD and Israel
Manifestations, functions, and perceptions of Alternative for Germany (AfD)’s “Israel solidarity” policy
IMAGO / Anadolu
Presidential election in Ireland continues political tradition
Clear election victory for Catherine Connolly
IMAGO / CTK Photo
Czechia before the Election
Stability or Change of Course? Foreign Policy Orientation under Scrutiny
Adobe Stock / Serghei
Parliamentary elections in the Republic of Moldova – a decisive election, not only for Chişinău
The election on 28 September is crucial for the European Union, too.
IMAGO / Bestimage
France in a political deadlock after the fall of the French government
Anger, frustration and mistrust
smarterpix / vepar5
Malawi votes
President, parliament, and communal elections in the world’s poorest democracy
Adobe Stock / nmann77
Analyse des Grundsatzprogramms der AfD im Licht der Extremismustheorie
Über Verschwörungstheorien, ethnisch-biologistische Identitätsvorstellungen, die Ablehnung pluralistischer Demokratie und Einschränkungen von Grundrechten
IMAGO / ITAR-TASS
Foiled Coup in Armenia? Conflict with Church Leadership Escalates
Yerevan reports the thwarting of a violent coup with Moscow's fingerprints
IMAGO / Bestimage
Keir Starmer's first year
First-year political record and German-British friendship treaty
Event Reports on the topic
„Unsere Demokratie. Unsere Verantwortung.“
Tag der Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung 2025 – Welt in Unordnung?!
Dorfliebe – Politik persönlich nehmen
Ein Bericht über unsere Dorfliebe-Station in Mengerskirchen-Waldernbach.
Gerd Markert/KAS
‘Alone in the wilderness’ – Merkel warns of Europe's weakness at the Pöttering Symposium
Honorary symposium on the occasion of Prof. Hans-Gert Pöttering's 80th birthday
Julia Reisinger/KAS
Social Market Economy Award 2025 presented to Heike Göbel
Voice of democracy – in the sense of constructive economic policy discourse
Dorfliebe: Politik im direkten Austausch mit der Bürgerschaft
Landtagsabgeordnete Lena Arnoldt diskutiert mit Bürgerinnen und Bürgern über Dorfentwicklung, Bürokratie und regionale Anliegen
Rechtsstaatlichkeit als Sicherheitsfaktor in EU-Beitrittsländern
Eindrücke vom Frankfurter Gespräch am 18. August 2025
„Dorfliebe leben“ – Politik mit Herz und gesundem Menschenverstand
Hartwig Jourdan (MdL) über bürgernahes Engagement, politische Verantwortung und den Wert dörflicher Gemeinschaft
Media library
