Collaborative Effort for Democratic Expansion in the Rhine Region
In the wake of global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the importance of standing up for democratic values has never been more pertinent. This sentiment is echoed in the ongoing #demokratierelevant poster campaign, initiated by the Partnership for Democracy (PfD) as part of the federal program "Democracy lives!" in 2021.
The campaign, which began in Neuss, Meerbusch, Dormagen, and Grevenbroich, is now being extended to the remaining district communities in Rhein-Kreis Neuss. County Director Dirk Brüggge is proud to present this pro-democracy statement, as he believes that everyone is #demokratierelevant.
In Rhein-Kreis Neuss, the campaign remains ongoing, with posters displayed in public spaces such as bus stops and community centers. It is often coordinated locally by the Partnership for Democracy Rhein-Kreis Neuss, involving collaboration with schools, youth organizations, and municipal authorities. The posters feature regional individuals with their portraits and personal messages about democracy, aiming to highlight the strengths of democracy.
The #demokratierelevant campaign has garnered positive public attention, successfully sparking conversations on democratic values and participation among diverse demographic groups. Feedback from local participants indicates increased awareness of democratic challenges and a boost in civic engagement, particularly among youth. It helps counteract political apathy and addresses the rise of extremist viewpoints by emphasizing democracy’s relevance in everyday life.
The new campaign aims to strengthen local democratic engagement in response to anti-democratic views and the growing spread of right-wing extremist ideologies. Brüggge is glad the campaign is being revived in Rhein-Kreis Neuss and hopes it will continue to foster democratic consciousness at the regional level, contributing to a broader democratic culture.
The #demokratierelevant campaign is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in promoting democratic values. Its success in Rhein-Kreis Neuss serves as a beacon for other regions, demonstrating the importance of staying vigilant against anti-democratic tendencies and fostering a culture of active democratic engagement.
- The #demokratierelevant campaign, with its focus on showcasing the relevance of democracy in everyday life, also touches upon other significant aspects, such as encouraging activism in general-news, promoting an inclusive other lifestyle, and bringing awareness to political matters.
- As the relevant #demokratierelevant campaign spreads its message across Rhein-Kreis Neuss, fostering democratic consciousness and combating political apathy, it provides a model for other community-driven initiatives that prioritize diverse topics, like lifestyle, politics, and general-news, to thrive and engage with various demographic groups.