Democracy in the 21st Century | Results and Prospects
October 9th, 1989 is a date that conveys a particular political responsibility to the city of Leipzig. This is why from October 22nd to 24th, an international conference will be held, focusing on the topic of “Democracy in the 21st Century”. The conference aims at drawing a critical balance while pointing out cautious yet constructive perspectives for the future.
Make the voice of democracy, non-violence and criticism heard
In panel discussions, presentations and workshops, renowned representatives from politics, science and the civil society will address urgent questions regarding democracy and the civil society. more...
Address of Welcome on the occasion of October 9th, 1989 / Conference on Democracy
Ladies and Gentlemen,
October 9th, 1989, and the dramatic events that came with it, is more than just a historic day for the city of Leipzig. It is a day of European relevance and constitutes a special political responsibility for our city. Those days in the fall of 1989, triggering the fall of the Berlin Wall and the German reunification, still characterize the spirit of Leipzig and it’s citizens, just as much as the committed way in which the resulting social and political changes were handled.
Held for the first time from October 22nd to 24th, 2009, the
International Leipzig Conference on Democracy pays tribute to the incentive for democratic renewal given twenty years ago. Renowned experts have come to discuss the achievements that were made so far, as well as the potential that the new Europe holds, with young people and all those who contributed to the change, especially in the neighboring central European countries.
The conference draws a balance, but primarily, it points out perspectives for the future of democratic development. It aims at offering a platform for political discourse to the young generations in Germany and abroad. Thus, on October 24th, young participants will discuss the conference topics and present their findings to a broad public with activities and campaigns in the streets of Leipzig.
This year’s
International Leipzig Conference on Democracy is a prelude that will be followed by further conferences, held biannually. Today, I would like to invite you to discuss the journey into a new Europe, to develop new incentives and ideas. The future of a society is built on it’s energy to remember. Let us keep alive for the generations to come what was accomplished twenty years ago against all expectations and assessments: the impenetrable borders of the past have become the beginning of a new, common Europe. We are our own history and our future. Let us never forget: Democracy concerns us all, every single one of us!
I wish the first
International Leipzig Conference on Democracy every success.
Ihr Burkhard Jung
Lord Mayor of the city of Leipzig
