Perspectives on the Year 2017
www.kas.de Editorial 01
Table of Contents Dear Reader,
Editorial 1
Our 2017 Topics 3 Departments of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung 23 The year 2017 was characterized by turmoil not only in international relations, but also in European and With Confidence into the Future 4 European and International Cooperation 24 German domestic politics. During his first year in Freedom and Security – The Future of Europe 6 Academic Promotion and Culture 26 office, American President Donald Trump has held We Choose Freedom – The Adenauer Year 8 Politics and Consulting 28 the world in suspense as a result of his fundamental Migration and Integration 10 Reference and Research Services, reshaping of trade, immigration, and foreign policies. Reformation and Freedom of Religion 12 Archives of Christian-Democratic Politics 30 Germany cannot insulate itself from these changes to Democracy, Elections, Civic Education 32 Multilateralism and alliances are increasingly being the international order. This has led many to become and Young Political Talent 14 Communication 34 called into question. This is also the case for the apprehensive, while others, in turn, have intentionally European Union, which, in the wake of Brexit, sep- taken advantage of the situation to promote their aratist aspirations, and disagreement among mem- own aims. Our country, however, is well prepared for The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung 16 Names, Facts, Annual Accounts 36 ber states on key issues such as the refugee crisis, future challenges. Employment is at a record level, finds itself confronted with a crucial test. In addition, the budget is on a solid footing, and investment in About Us 17 Annual Accounts 37 populist political parties and movements have been education and research is greater than ever before. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung in Figures 18 Joint Declaration on State Funding gaining strength in many countries and have acted Germany is a successful democracy, a reliable ally, Our 2017 Laureates 22 of Political Foundations 40 to exacerbate the crisis. By contrast, the French have committed to European integration, and a respected Board of Directors of clearly expressed their support for Europe by electing partner. the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e. V. 41 Emmanuel Macron as their president. The conse- Members of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung e. V. 43 quences of the Syrian civil war can be felt far beyond As such, the work of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung The Villa La Collina in Cadenabbia 47 the boundaries of the Middle East. And 2017 has in 2017 can be summarized under the leitmotif of Academic Promotion Committees 48 also seen series of devastating terrorist attacks both “With Confidence into the Future”. As part of our work within Europe and abroad. in Germany, Europe, and throughout the world, we provide analyses necessary for policy making, conduct Publication Information 49 research on historical and political themes, advise domestic, European, and international decision- makers on politics, the economy, and society, support talented young people, and promote literature, art, and culture. 20 Editorial
We will continue to engage in discussions focusing on the future. We concern ourselves with the state of democracy and with the central theme of education. We inquire into what binds us together as a society and the driving forces behind it. We seek answers that Our 2017 are as close as possible to the concerns of citizens in order to encourage a willingness to change wherever necessary. Topics This annual review highlights a selection of the We would also like to extend our thanks to the various activities of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung. committee members for their constructive cooper- Taken together with additional information provided ation, as well as to the Freundeskreis (Friends of the on our web site (www.kas.de), it reflects the high level Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung), our donors, sponsors, of commitment, competence, and dedication of our and partners for their support. We will continue to staff and contributors both in Germany and abroad. make every effort to justify the trust placed in us. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to them all. We hold the future in our own hands. Let us vigor- ously work together in a combined effort to write the next chapter in the story of our country!
Berlin/Sankt Augustin, August 2018
Prof. Dr. Norbert Lammert Michael Thielen Dr. Hans-Gert Pöttering 40 Our 2017 Topics Our 2017 Topics 05
With Confidence into the Future
by Andreas Kleine-Kraneburg and Lukas Lingenthal This year’s leitmotif of the Adenauer-Stiftung is also reflected in the work with young scholarship Despite all the complex challenges in the world recipients from our scholarship today, there are plenty of reasons to face the In the area of political and civic education, the foun- programme. Against the backdrop future with confidence. This was the focus of our dation organized some 170 events across Germany of populist attacks on democracy, 2017 leitmotif. attended by an interested public numbering close to we have hosted numerous semi 14,000 and that covered various topics and questions nars dealing with the foundations In 2017, Germany has once again demonstrated its on how to shape the future. and the future of a free and economic, social, and cultural strength as a country In terms of the foundation’s inter- democratic state based on the in the heart of Europe. The employment levels contin- Among these events, special emphasis was given to national activities, support given to rule of law, as well as to determine ued to rise, the budget was balanced, investment in a series of talks given throughout the country enti- politically engaged adolescents and appropriate approaches to address education and research was greater than ever before, tled “Germany. The next Chapter. With Confidence young adults represents an impor- populism. With its journal Zukunft 2017 and the social system remained one of the most into the Future”. In light of the general situation and tant core feature of our work. (Future 2017), the foundation efficient worldwide. Yet, this year was also character- the public mood in Germany, the 38 symposiums A major strong point in this respect Another important sphere of activ- pooled together relevant topics ized by complex crises, which deeply shook familiar offered views on the future that focused on the was our continuation in 2017 of ity was the debate on the future on the future and the professional structures both in Europe and the world. challenges and perspectives, as well as the demands the regional formats to promote of Europe. To further discussion, skills of our staff and external and opportunities that we are facing. In particular, young politicians, such as the encounter seminars were organ- experts to create a publication that The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, adhering to its leit- they dealt with themes such as promoting innovation Diplomados in Latin America, the ized, predominantly in the border would promote debate and illus- motif for 2017 “With Confidence into the Future”, was and creativity in business and society, democracy and Election Bridge Academy in Africa, regions of France, Poland, Estonia, trate those themes that will shape therefore concerned to send a clear message on the political stability, political culture and social cohesion, and the KASYP seminars in Asia. and Italy. These also served as an the work of the Konrad-Adenauer- need for greater confidence, as well as to promote the future of a united Europe, and questions of exchange forum with students Stiftung in the years to come. the idea of a reliable, stable, bold, dynamic, curious, international stability and the role of Germany. These Once again, our strengths in inter- from the host countries. It formulates just those challenges and innovative republic, all without ignoring the fears intensive lecture and discussion events featured par- national network activity and our which we will confront while facing and worries of the population. The many activities ticipation by representatives of business, science, the support for young journalists were the future with confidence. conducted by the various departments of the Konrad- media, and other fields, and always included either combined to organize seminars to Adenauer-Stiftung evidently demonstrate that we current or former members of government, federal promote quality journalism utiliz- should have confidence in our democracy and demo- parliamentarians, or state politicians. ing new formats. One such exam- cratic institutions, as well as the social, economic, and ple was provided by young Ger- cultural capabilities of our country. We have endeav- man and French journalists who oured to encouraged young people, in particular, binationally worked in tandem to to be aware of the creative possibilities open to them report from Paris for the Internet and to take advantage of these opportunities. This platform bonjournalist.eu on the was especially evident during our Zukunftskonferenz run-up to the French presidential (a conference addressing topics that may be relevant elections. in the future), where Chancellor Angela Merkel, in addressing some 250 young men and women in our academy, spoke about her vision for the future, the potential for growth, and the global order. 60 Our 2017 Topics Our 2017 Topics 07
Freedom and Security – The Future of Europe
A better understanding of the priorities and prob- by Olaf Wientzek Differences between EU member states must be over- lems of the various EU member states remains the come so that the Union can guarantee long-term precondition for an EU that is both internally and prosperity, freedom, and security. externally capable of action and of providing a sus- tainable future. Relations between member states Following many years of crises, At the same time, there was a Due, in part, to growing global and regional instabil- were subjected to considerable stress as a result 2017 delivered fresh hope and growing awareness that the EU ity, the EU is increasingly expected not only to ensure of government debt crises, the refugee crisis, and some positive news for the Euro- had to do more than just engage peace and prosperity, but also to provide security. the participation of populist parties in a number of pean integration project. Decidedly in long-term crisis management, Notwithstanding all the criticism on developments European governments. The foundation assumed pro-European forces succeeded especially if it did not want to within the EU, its citizens continue to show strong an important mediation role, in particular, through in parliamentary and presiden- squander the trust of its citizens. support for more European cooperation in foreign its work in Brussels and in its other European offices tial elections in a number of EU Consequently, discussions began and defence policy as well as in counterterrorism outside of Germany. Through lecture and discussion countries. For its part, the EU could at the European level on strategies efforts. It also became clear in 2017 that with the events, dialogue programmes, and conferences with point to its own achievements: to improve the EU’s capacity for transformation of the transatlantic partnership, representatives from politics, business, science, civil The Eurozone returned to the path action and ensure a sustainable the EU could not afford to be complacent. Instead, society, and the media, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung of growth and member states future. This was accompanied by it must assume greater responsibility for its own contributed to an improved understanding of the agreed to steps towards closer increased dialogue with citizens, security and that of its neighbours, as well as safe- various European political positions. In particular, cooperation, such as in the areas whether as part of a process of guarding Western norms and values in international it supported the development of transregional net- of security and defence policy. reflection on the future of the EU foreign affairs, trade dealings, and environmental works and thereby took a first step in overcoming the Overall, the EU has proven to be initiated by the EU Commission or policies. Correspondingly, the Adenauer-Stiftung, differences between North and South, and East and a capable crisis manager. Despite in other formats for discussion. through its events and publications, promotes a West. Through regular reports on EU countries and these positive developments, The Konrad- Adenauer-Stiftung has stronger engagement by the EU at the international the introduction of a European-wide political party the dangers posed by populism, supported this process through level. Last year, we discussed in various formats both barometer, we also contributed to a better perception autocratic tendencies, and national seminars at its civic education in Germany and at our offices abroad measures to of the political situation in other EU member states. egoism remain acute. forums, by the publications of its strengthen the Common Security and Defence Policy Reflection Group on the Future of the EU and contributed to this debate with our The foundation has supported the processes of of Europe, and its comments on own discussion papers. democratization and Europeanization in the Western reflection papers of the Euro- Balkan region as well as in its eastern and southern pean Commission. In addition, neighbours through dialogue programmes, political Hans-Gert Pöttering, the former consultation, and training sessions. It has also called Chairman of the foundation, upon Berlin and Brussels for a more intensive com- published a discussion paper with mitment by the EU in these regions. In the long term, suggestions on strengthening the the EU will only remain a region of peace, freedom, EU and how it should prepare for and security if it succeeds in promoting democracy, a sustainable future. the rule of law, and security not only within the EU, but also in neighbouring countries. 80 Our 2017 Topics Our 2017 Topics 09
We Choose our videobook was among the finalists for the German eBook Freedom – Award. In explaining its choice, the jury stated that “the designers” The Adenauer Year had shown “a talent for media mix and instructional editing”. In With its nomination for the Politik addition, the personality of Kon- Award 2017 in the category “Social by Frauke Gottwald rad Adenauer is “accessible and Campaign”, the foundation was and Dr. Judith Michel comprehensible for the historically able to demonstrate that it could interested layperson in this app The participants of a Jugendpolitik- convey (historical) content in a con- realization”. Tag (Youth Politics Day) in Cologne temporary, surprising, and provoc- In 2017, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung commemo- focused on Adenauer both as a ative manner, relate this content rated the 50th anniversary of the death of its name Various Activities to politician at the communal level to current events, and to generate giver. Its mission was to make Adenauer accessible Mark the Anniversary and as German Chancellor. The interaction with its target groups. to the public, both as a man and a politician. His The foundation supported the Kommunalkongress (annual confer- The positive response to the activ- unwavering commitment to freedom remains publication of the recently discov- ence on municipal topics) at the ities surrounding the Adenauer relevant today. ered journals of Adenauer’s son, Konrad Adenauer Cologne/Bonn Year reflect the timeliness of its The show has resulted in a touring exhibition that has Monsignore Paul Adenauer. The Airport commemorated the 100th central message: Freedom was, At the centre of events to mark the Adenauer Year was since been presented at numerous political education journals provide hitherto unknown anniversary of his assumption of is, and remains our most valuable a ceremony at the German Historical Museum (DHM) forums, schools, and other institutions. The touring insights into Konrad Adenauer’s office as mayor of Cologne. possession. The legacy of Konrad in Berlin. In addition to the keynote lecture by former exhibition can be borrowed. politics and his thoughts and feel- Adenauer cannot be emphasized American Secretary of State Henry Kissinger in a video ings both in the final phase of his “Who is Konrad?” – often enough. It was he who real- message recorded in the USA, Chancellor Angela The videobook “Konrad Adenauer – chancellorship and as party leader Six Weeks of Adenauer Live ized that the defence of freedom Merkel delivered an address in which she made clear Founding Father of the Federal Republic of the CDU. Another way in which the founda- can only be successful within the that Adenauer’s lifework should also be understood as and Architect of Europe” tion marked the Adenauer anni- stable and value-based framework a duty to be pursued in our current turbulent times. As part of the digital age, it is extremely important In addition to many other events, versary was with the realisation of of multilateral cooperation. She stressed that we should not forget the great effort that media work concerning Adenauer be kept up a presentation entitled “Konrad the “Who is Konrad?” campaign, required and the difficult conditions under which our to date. Accordingly, a new videobook illustrates his Adenauer – Statesman and through which his thoughts and free and democratic system was achieved. history from mayor of Cologne to the architect of Democrat” in a Doku-Live format political decisions were made Europe, from prisoner of the Nazi regime to the crea- toured throughout Germany. This relevant for those living in 2017. Unity only in freedom tor of the Federal Republic of Germany. Archival films innovative format in the sphere of Adenauer was seen involved in cur- The ceremony also marked the opening of the exhibi- show the politician as a part of his time, visual doc- political education was developed rent affairs, commented on political tion “Unity Only in Freedom – Konrad Adenauer and uments resurrect the atmosphere of renewal in the specifically for school children. events, surprised the public with the German Question”. Conceived by our Department Adenauer era, detailed accompanying texts explain It combines film clips, images, and street art and on posters, twittered, for Contemporary History, the exhibition aimed to the historical context, and all of this is complemented live commentary, allowing specta and could be seen in an advertise- increase the awareness of Adenauer as an individual by original sources offering a deeper understanding tors to immerse themselves in ment in the Berlin subway system. and his achievements in German politics as well as to of his biography. Adenauer’s time. An explanatory The core of all these communica- raise his visibility in Berlin. Within the framework of film complements the political tions consisted of actual quota- three major themes – Adenauer’s policy of integra- The videobook Konrad Adenauer (in German only) can education efforts for various target tions. In this way, it was possible tion with the West, his dealings with the East, and his be freely downloaded as an app for tablets (Android audiences. to show how Adenauer’s thoughts, relationship to Berlin – Adenauer is portrayed as the and iOS). It has already been downloaded 3000 times proclamations, and commentaries advocate of what were at the time very controversial and, for a time, it was one of the “most popular new are still pertinent today. Adenauer policies. apps” in Germany. At the 2017 Frankfurt Book Fair, also appeared as guest author on all of the foundation’s channels. 10 Our 2017 Topics Our 2017 Topics 11
Migration and Strengthening Social Cohesion In 2017, the issues of social cohesion and percep- Integration tions on the notion of one’s homeland figured high on the agenda in Germany. In addition to relevant papers and studies, the 18 civic education forums and regional offices of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung sought innovative ways to engage in dialogue with by Benedict Göbel Migration is a fact and it affects almost every country citizens. Its question, “What kind of country do we and Dr. Christina Catherine Krause in the world. As such, in 2016, the United Nations set want to be?”, proved to be thought-provoking. An as its goal the adoption in 2018 of two international open debate held on a level playing field was thereby compacts. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung has bol- made possible. Our dialogue clearly illustrated that Migration, refugee protection, and integration stered these efforts with its own initiative. Its aim is citizens want to shoulder more responsibility and, are global challenges. International cooperation to make use of local experts to identify the potential in a constructive manner, find solutions together for has a key role to play. for cooperation at the regional level and to promote the challenges that lie ahead. In addition, our kultur closer partnerships. geschichten event series gave authors and creative The year 2017 continued to see German society and artists centre stage to represent the diversity found in politics intensely preoccupied with the issues of migra- To assist decision-makers to respond to the effects Germany. tion and integration. Commitment to assisting the new of forced and voluntary migration, the foundation arrivals has nonetheless remained high in the wake increasingly relied in 2017 on the use of expert Our Municipal Academy with its publications Integra- of the migration and refugee crisis in Europe in 2015. To this end, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung set in workshops. These enabled representatives of gov- tion at the Local Level and Best Practices on Refugee Numerous integration initiatives were started in the motion some 300 projects and activities in 2017, ernment, parliament, academia and think tanks to Assistance and Neighbourhood Management (only avail- wake the refugee crisis of 2015, and these attest to the both in Germany and abroad, to address topics be networked and brought together (on location in able in German) provided information on ways and high level of social engagement in working towards related to migration and integration. These included Italy and North Africa) to discuss current challenges approaches to integration and offered expert work- sustainable integration. Germany welcomes persons studies, analyses, papers, discussions, workshops, and potential solutions. The analyses and exchanges shops on such topics as integration into the labour in need of protection, EU citizens and skilled workers behind-the-scenes consultations, and fact-finding primarily focused on concepts to regulate migration market. In addition, the foundation sponsored the and students from all over the world. missions, film and exhibition projects, and scholar- and to combat the causes of forced migration, as well creation of a digital sport and game dictionary in close ships. In addition, the foundation offers information as the implementation of these approaches. cooperation with the DJK youth sport association, for Yet, concerns and questions have arisen in recent on these issues via its recently created “Migration which it received an award in November 2017 by the years. These revolve around the issues of asylum and Integration” web portal, as well as through the world association of leisure sports (Trim and Fitness procedures, the right of residence, return policies, wide-ranging educational services of the Adenauer Association for International Sport for All, TASIFA). the protection of the EU’s external borders, European Campus, which makes use of maps, films, a “time solidarity, and the fight against the root-causes of machine”, quiz questions, surveys, and index cards. forced migration. At the national level, in particular, Both websites offer insights into background infor- apprehension exists with respect to the precondi- mation, data, and facts. Individual stories were, in tions for a successful integration process. These turn, researched by the Journalist Academy of the questions and concerns need to be taken seriously. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (JONA) and produced for print, radio, and film media.
Strengthening Multilateral Cooperation While integration policy at the federal level in the coming years will focus on the establishment of a nation-wide strategy adhering to the policy of “incentives and demands”, there are only limited solutions to questions raised by migration that can be provided at the national level. 12 Our 2017 Topics Our 2017 Topics 13
Reformation and The other volume concerns the political relevance and the remote effects of Reformation movements Freedom of Religion on various areas of politics. It points, in particular, to human rights and freedom of religion as a means of illustrating the varied and arduous path that has led to our current idea of freedom and tolerance towards other religious faiths. Even today, the right by Dr. Karlies Abmeier Religion is once again playing a greater role in One only has to recall events surrounding the Refor- to openly practice one’s religion without restriction and Dr. Otmar Oehring society, as demonstrated by the interest generated mation from the 15th to the 17th century to see how is at risk in many regions of the world. Quite often, by the 500th anniversary of the Reformation and such conflicts were waged and resolved in the past. a violation of freedom of religion is also accompa- the commitment shown for religious freedom The 500th anniversary of the publication of Martin nied by restrictions of other basic rights, such as the worldwide. Luther’s 95 theses, regarded as the start of the Refor- freedom of assembly and women’s rights. A lack of mation in Germany, aroused a great deal of ecclesias- respect for these rights endangers social peace and Religion has long been regarded as a guarantee of tic as well as political interest. international security. social cohesion. In recent years, however, the socio- logical foundations for this conclusion have changed In contrast to earlier centennial anniversaries, the The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, both in Germany significantly. For example, in the early 1950s, over 90 churches have chosen to highlight ecumenicalism and abroad, has worked to draw attention to this per cent of the German population belonged to one in the year 2017. Church leaders prayed for forgive- state of affairs. It has issued numerous publications of the two large Christian denominations. By 2016, ness at reconciliation services. There have been regarding freedom of religion worldwide, as well as this figure sunk to less than 60 per cent. And new efforts made to find common paths towards the on the current situation and the prospects for Chris- to the statistics are Muslims following the various future. Another difference to earlier, predominantly tians in Syria and for Christians and Yazidis in Iraq. denominations of Islam. In addition, the number of nationally defined historical celebrations, is that The foundation conducts and provides support to those who claim no religious affiliation has grown those in 2017 focused attention on the worldwide events, including meetings of the International Panel considerably. They now make up the majority of the spread of reformist thought. This setting of priorities of Parliamentarians for Freedom of Religion or Belief population in large cities and in eastern Germany. was supported by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (IPPFoRB), that promote the unimpeded practice of Secularisation, individualisation, and pluralisation with the publication (only in German) of Refor- religion in all parts of the world. We are obliged to have resulted in a new religious and ideological mation weltweit – Erinnerungen in vier Kontinenten protect this human right with our continuous efforts diversity. Yet, contrary to the assumption that religion (Reformation Worldwide – Recollections in Four as it is of great significance in ensuring a free and would become meaningless in modern society, reli- Continents) and Politik in Zeichen der Reformation – peaceful society. Only when this right is observed gion and religious policy in public debate have grown Der lange Schatten von 1517 (Politics in Light of the can people contribute to the cohesion of society on in importance. Reformation – The Long Shadow of 1517). The first the basis of their religious motivation. volume, aimed at a readership worldwide, shows One reason for this development is the ambivalent just how differently the ideas of the Reformation character of religion. On the one side, it is possible to were adopted, and how their spread was, not least observe those aspects of religion that promote com- of all, dependant on political conditions. The con- munities and cultivate a sense of meaning, motivating sequences are reflected in differing mentalities and people to contribute to the common good and to live can be observed even today in the political cultures according to the principles of charity and solidarity. of Europe – from the Lutheran influenced Scandi- On the other side, there is the violent expression of navian countries to the Catholic south. Outside of misguided religiosity, in which fundamentalist views Europe, the originally diaspora churches have, in are propagated in the name of a particular religion, some instances, experienced rapid growth, but they thereby provoking fear of religion in general. Religious have had to assert themselves against the political conflicts, even in cases where violence does not occur, claims of the Pentecostal Churches with their often can escalate in a society characterized by diversity very conservative values. and must therefore be resolved. 14 Our 2017 Topics Our 2017 Topics 15
Democracy, Elections, Our KommunalAkademie has served as a local democracy and Young Political Talent The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung has agency and has educated many set up a programme for especially local decision-makers and new- ambitious young talent, focusing comers to communal politics on the deliberate planning and throughout Germany. Its seminar strategy necessary in political cam- on local politics is aimed at newly by Dr. Sandra Busch-Janser, In light of the numerous challenges facing paigns. Upon completion of the elected office holders and regional Dr. Christoph von Hehl, democracy, providing support to young political programme, participants receive a representatives and provides ori- and Dr. Kristin Wesemann talent, both at home and abroad, has become Campaign Management Certificate. entation, specialist expertise, and The starting point of the network increasingly important. The foundation thereby hopes to strategic skills in current local and is a week-long diploma course, in enable politically interested and regional political subject areas. which experts, including former Keeping with the spirit of our 2017 leitmotif, committed scholarship holders to In the hope of arousing early presidents, party chairpersons, “With Confidence into the Future”, the foundation conduct political campaigns. Fol- interest in political issues among and campaign organizers, address felt it appropriate to encourage young people, in lowing an introduction to the fun- young people and young adults, fundamental issues: What does particular, to become politically engaged, to discover damentals of campaign planning, the KommunalAkademie has fur- good government leadership mean new opportunities to take part in society, and to work they work through a simulation, ther developed its “Decisions in today? What are the latest trends towards the common good. In the promotion of these conducting a fictitious campaign on City Council” simulation game to in political communication and ideals, our scholarship programme placed special the basis of real data. The seminar include a format appropriate for election campaigns? What char- emphasis on identifying recipients who were already culminates with testimonials and young people. acterizes political leadership in active in politics at university or in the community and best-practice tips by experienced the era of humanism? In this way, have thereby assumed their first responsibilities in an campaign workers. It has become increasingly clear a whole generation can connect honorary post. Our seminar series Wege in die Politik internationally, as well, that good through #SomosLaKas and can (Paths into Politics) is specifically addressed to this Furthermore, a whole range of and forward-looking policies thereby offer each other mutual audience. Here, we present various ways to engage seminars exists, offering numerous require input from committed support and a sense of cohesion. in politics and introduce our scholarship recipients opportunities to reach out to and young talent in order to be pre- This is particularly important on to political actors for informal behind-the-scenes involve young political talent. Our pared for the challenges of the a continent that has experienced discussions. Frauenkolleg (Women’s College) future. An exemplary approach more than its share of political developed, for instance, a compre- pursued by the foundation can be violence and where lone warriors In order to increase overall interest in democracy hensive mentoring programme in seen in its Latin American initiative can still be found. and political participation among young people and 2017 for women engaged in com- #SomosLaKas. This networking to counteract disaffection with politics, politicians munal politics. The programme platform currently offers around Twice a year, particularly active and political campaigns must embrace and compre- includes an intensive exchange 300 young Latin Americans from members of the network meet hend the emotional frame of reference of a con- within mentoring pairs, as well as Río Bravo to Tierra del Fuego the at one of the #SomosLaKas stantly changing society. For this reason, we equip various seminars, such as how to opportunity to consult each other campuses. They can team up with young up-and-coming politicians with the proper develop political goals. Among the on current topics, discuss the individuals who they had previously tools of political communication. mentors supporting the project challenges facing their countries, known only virtually, and together are Brigitte Schäuble, Christine and exchange information. work on election campaigns or take Neumann-Martin (Member of the over strategic planning for another Baden-Württemberg State Assem- member. They here encounter in bly), Gabriele Schmidt (former a concentrated form all of the suc- Member of the German Bundes cesses, tasks, experiences, values, tag), as well as other women and principles that characterize regional councillors and former our political development pro- members of state assemblies. grammes for young people. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung 17
About Us
The Konrad- The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung is a political founda- At conferences and congresses we bring together tion active throughout Germany via its 19 civic edu- people who have something to say. In Germany cation forums and regional offices. Some 100 offices alone, some 145,000 people attend the approximately Adenauer-Stiftung abroad manage projects in more than 120 countries. 2500 events that are held every year. We provide Our headquarters are split between Sankt Augustin material and non-material support to gifted young near Bonn and Berlin. people, not only from Germany but also from Central and Eastern Europe as well as developing countries. Konrad Adenauer and his principles define our guidelines, our duty, and our mission. The founda- We also keep in close touch with our alumni, whose tion has carried the name of the Federal Republic of number has risen to more than 14,000 since 1965. Germany’s first chancellor since 1964. It grew out of the Society for Christian-Democratic Civic Education, Exhibits, readings, and awards complete our pro- founded in 1955. gramme. We support young artists and we honour authors with our prestigious Literary Award every year. Both at home and abroad we use civic education We have awarded a prize for local journalism since to promote freedom, peace, and justice. Our most 1980. Young journalists are promoted in a special important goals are strengthening democracy, fur- programme. Since 2002, the Social Market Economy thering European unification, improving transatlantic prize has recognised distinguished personalities who relations, and increasing development cooperation. have supported and encouraged the development of Current and well-researched analyses form the basis the Social Market Economy. Since 2001, our DenkT@g of our political activities. The Academy in Berlin is our competition has awarded websites in which young forum for dialogue on issues shaping our future – people confront issues surrounding the Holocaust and from politics and the economy to religion, society, Nazi dictatorship, right-wing extremism, xenophobia, and science. intolerance, and violence.
The Archives of Christian Democratic Politics research and explore the history of Christian Democracy in Ger- many and Europe. Users have access to a comprehen- sive body of documents, state-of-the-art media, and a specialised library with some 200,000 titles focused on history and politics. 18 The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung 19
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