The German Association of Cities is increasing pressure on Federal Education Minister Karin Prien (CDU) regarding the future of the national program “Demokratie leben” (Democracy Lives).
Burkhard Jung, the Association’s President (SPD), stated to the “Rheinische Post” that quick clarity is urgently needed concerning the program’s continuation. He emphasized that the support granted to municipal partnerships for democracy allows cities to build local networks dedicated to promoting democracy and tolerance within urban society.
Jung highlighted the significance of the current structures, noting that these more than 300 municipality-run networks bring together people who might otherwise never interact. They are also responsible for advancing concrete democracy projects. Consequently, the representative voiced deep concern over the ongoing debate. While the Leipziger mayor conceded that evaluating the impact of funding programs is understandable, he argued that it becomes problematic when established, thriving structures face the threat of disappearing without a viable alternative.
Therefore, Jung demanded that cities must be involved early if the federal program is to be redesigned. This advocacy comes against the backdrop of Minister Prien’s plans to discontinue funding for approximately 200 projects before the end of the year, amid a budget of about 190 million euros allocated to the program this year.
