Student forum in Eisenach: Fight for democracy together!

Student forum in Eisenach: Fight for democracy together!

A spectacle of democracy! From October 14 to 18, 2024, the historic Eisenach shone with the Wartburg Festival of Democracy, which was based on an international student forum. In the venerable walls of the town hall, committed students from all over Europe met to discuss the challenges of democracy in their home countries. Under the provocative motto "What must be able to endure democracy?" became a common declaration inevitable, which draws attention to the concerned polarization that threatens our democratic values.

A call to the action! "We, the students, stand for transparency, social integration, freedom of expression and human rights," says the explanation. The solution! Where? In Eisenach, a city that is famous for its rich democratic past. Christian Faludi, head of the Society for Research in Democracy History, explains: "The Wartburg Festival is intended to strengthen the culture of memory of democracy." The international delegation also experienced exciting highlights, such as visiting the famous Wartburg and a captivating panel discussion in the rococo room. Here brilliant heads from universities discussed the urgent topic of polarization.

a versatile program

The exchange was not only academic; During the school attendance at the Martin Luther-Gymnasium, students experienced up close how democracy is lived in different countries and asked questions such as "Do you see democracy implemented in school?". Mayor Christoph Ihling praised this critical dialogue and expressed: "The exchange between students and the city society is crucial to strengthen trust in our democratic values." In a gripping final event, ARD chairman Kai Gniffke in the Nikolaikirche spoke about the threat of democracy by the great tech companies: "Courage instead of submission!"

The Wartburg Festival is more than just a unique event. It marks the beginning of a sequel! The student forum should also take place in the coming years with the aim of increasing the number of participants and intensifying the transnational exchange. In the next few weeks, the declaration that has been developed in this dynamic format will be published. So the young generation will not only be heard, but will also become a decisive force in the struggle for our democracy!