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
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 an engaging doctoral programme for those studying the political upheavals post the Soviet Union's collapse and the transition from authoritarian socialist regimes to democratic structures. 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 – Transformations after 1990”
The “Democracies in Europe – Transformations after 1990” doctoral programme aims to delve into the essential questions of historical-political transformation research, focusing on the period after the Soviet Union's dissolution and the post-Soviet transformation processes in Eastern and Central European EU countries. The programme primarily targets doctoral students in contemporary history and political sciences. Participants receive a scholarship as part of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung's doctoral funding programme.
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
IMAGO / Zoonar
Bundestag election 2025: France hopes for policy change in Germany
The rise of right-wing populists, influence from Russia and the USA as well as policy changes in the area of security and defence are the focus of election reporting.
Adobe Stock / hanohiki
Analysis of the Bundestag election in Germany on 23 February 2025
Detailed results of the Bundestag election, key determinants of the election outcome, voter migration, and social structure of the electorate.
Addisou Deresse
From Paralysis to Progress? Who will be the new face of the African Union?
A portrait of the candidates for the chairmanship of the AU Commission
IMAGO / Herrmann Agenturfotografie
Rule of law in South-East Europe: Highlights in 2024
A review of developments in South-East Europe over the past year
IMAGO / Agencia Prensa-Independiente
No Clear Winner in Ecuador's Elections
Political Polarization Persists Ahead of Runoff
IMAGO / NurPhoto
Georgian Knot: Local Repressions and International Isolation
For weeks, Georgia has been caught in a destructive cycle of protests and repression, isolating the country on the international stage.
PantherMedia / daniel0
Mexico: Turbulent start to a landmark year
An overview of current political events
Adobe Stock/Sergey Ilin
Will QUAD change the security architecture in the Indo-Pacific?
Diplomatic dialogue and practical cooperation on security challenges in the Indo-Pacific
IMAGO / Newscom World
The Team for “America First”
Trump Relies on Experienced Foreign Policy Experts and Loyal Ideologues
Rights, Representation and Reform: The Political Struggles of Persons with Disabilities in Malaysia
Country Report with a Difference: Malaysia
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire
A new president for Lebanon in crisis
After more than two years of deadlock, the office of president has been filled again. The first step on a long road to state renewal?
Call for Paper: Women in ASEAN Economies
Women in ASEAN: The Impact of Women’s Inclusion in Policymaking and the Cost of Women’s Exclusion in Economies
Maximilian Gödecke
Iris Wolff ist Literaturpreisträgerin der Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung 2025
„Lichtblicke in die Zeitgeschichte“
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire
South Africa's new government of national unity: progress or stagnation for the country?
An analysis of the first coalition in South Africa in almost thirty years
IMAGO / foto2press
Between scandals, election successes and court judgements – the AfD in 2024
A retrospective of key developments such as the the European elections, the party convention in Essen and the state elections in Eastern Germany
IMAGO / ZUMA Press
The U.S. Elections and the End of Comfort for the Canadian Government
Just a few weeks before taking over the G7 presidency, the election campaign in Canada is already well underway
Event Reports on the topic
KAS/ Thomas Starck
‘The ME in democracy always needs a WE as well’
Strengthening what unites us: Mandatory time for our society
Schutz der Demokratie – zwischen individueller Freiheit und öffentlicher Sicherheit
18. Berliner Rechtspolitische Konferenz
Tobias Koch/KAS
"Our democracy grows from the local"
The winners of the German Local Journalism Award 2023 were honoured in Berlin
Der Internationale Tag der Demokratie 2024: Bericht und Eindrücke aus Frankfurt/M. vom 15. September
Eine Kooperation mit dem Neuen Königsteiner Kreis e.V.
picture alliance/dpa
75 Jahre CDU/CSU-Bundestagsfraktion - Stabilitätsgarant für die deutsche Demokratie
Wissenschaftliche Fachtagung und politische Diskussion zur Feier eines einzigartigen Jubiläums
KAS / Juliane Liebers
‘We are witnesses to a real upheaval’
KAS Day 2024 - Democracy protects. Protects democracy.
KAS-Bremen
Extremismus-Aufklärung in der Schule mit Axel Reitz
„Ich war der Hitler von Köln. Mein Weg aus der Neonaziszene und wie Extremismus effektiv bekämpft werden kann.“
KAS-Bremen
Aussteigerbericht aus dem Rechtsextremismus
Wie der „Hitler von Köln“ zum „Judas von Köln“ wurde
Media library
