Hesse promotes political participation: 1.4 million for young people!

Hesse promotes political participation: 1.4 million for young people!

In Hesse, the commitment to political education and social participation of young people continues with fresh enthusiasm. The new funding period of the action program “Youth Makes Politics – Enabling Participation” spans the years 2026 to 2028 and provides around 1.4 million euros for this purpose. Social Minister Heike Hofmann emphasizes the importance of young people being able to actively participate in shaping their future. The aim of the program is to promote projects that support democracy education and the participation of young people. The focus is particularly on building sustainable, inclusive participation structures in municipalities, which is of crucial importance for the Minister of Social Affairs.

The commitment is aimed at young people regardless of their origin, level of education or life situation. Since 2000, Hesse has set standards when it comes to the participation of young people. This also reveals the intention to implement the recommendations of the Federal Government's 17th Children and Youth Report. Applications for this exciting funding can now be submitted digitally and by email. The call is aimed at providers of extracurricular youth education and universities with relevant departments in order to strengthen the active participation of young people.

Freedom for participation

The importance of creating freedom for political participation is also illustrated by the findings of Dr. Steve Kenner, a political scientist, underlined. In an interview with the German Children and Youth Foundation, he emphasizes that participation is not just a buzzword, but a central component of democracy education. Nowadays, many young people are involved in social contexts, but the political aspect must also come into greater focus. It is important to recognize social inequalities and work for changes in society.

Young people's interest in political issues is increasing, even if traditional political institutions often don't really resonate with young people. Kenner observes that young people are increasingly organizing themselves via the Internet and are campaigning for important issues such as climate protection and refugee policy. But the political engagement just mentioned is often viewed as uncomfortable, whether through submitting petitions or organizing school strikes. It is all the more important that educators create freedom and reflect on their role in the participation process.

Democracy education in schools

A key to successful democracy education are schools, where students can be encouraged to become socially and politically involved. Commitment thus becomes a hallmark of an active civil society. The democracy portal of the state education server already offers valuable information and examples of “learning through engagement”, be it internships in social institutions or dealing with environmental issues. Schools are seen here not only as places of knowledge, but also as places of learning for democratic practices.

In the context of this discussion about commitment and participation, it becomes clear how essential it is that educational offerings are constantly adapted to the challenges of society such as migration, climate change and digitalization. Political and social engagement is crucial to strengthen the common good and promote broad political debates. Ultimately, the ability of young citizens to participate is the key to a vibrant democracy and fair coexistence.

Overall, the current developments in Hesse show that intensive and sustained efforts are being made to promote democracy education and the participation of young people. From the perspective of political education, young people can learn to confidently articulate their interests and needs and to actively intervene in social discourse.

For more information on these important initiatives, see articles from social.hessen.de, reflectionstool-demokratiebildung.de and schule-bw.de.