Mayor Schranz in dialogue with Weierheide students about politics!

Mayor Schranz in dialogue with Weierheide students about politics!

On July 16, 2025, Daniel Schranz, Mayor of Oberhausen, received around 50 students from grade 12 of the Weierheide Comprehensive School in the council chamber. In an open dialogue that lasted two hours, the young people discussed questions about digital media, the interests of young people and social development. Schranz emphasized the growing interest of young people in urban and political issues and gave insights into the work of the council, the city administration and political participation.

What's particularly exciting for the students is that in September they will take part in a local election for the first time. This milestone not only marks a new step in their political participation, but also the opportunity to raise their voices on important social issues. The opportunity to actively participate could not only increase trust in democracy, but also appeal to young people who are looking for alternatives and solutions in a time of uncertainty.

Digital media as a bridge to participation

But what does the digital world bring us in terms of political participation? Online platforms and social networks play a crucial role, enabling the easy exchange of information and promoting political discourse. As the bpb states, citizens have the opportunity to find out about political issues and share their opinions via platforms such as Instagram or TikTok. Young people are exploring new forms of political participation through these channels — from online petitions to digital elections.

The major challenges associated with digital participation are reflected in a devilish dilemma: While the Internet makes access to information easier, many young people are confronted with the fear of drowning in a sea of ​​fake news and disinformation. According to one study This uncertainty is further exacerbated by current global developments, such as the Ukraine conflict or climate change. Issues such as inflation or divisions in society cause many young people to feel distant from political actors.

The longing for participation

In the context of these discussions, reference should also be made to the political education of our youth: The bpb highlights the importance of equipping young people with the necessary digital skills to be able to actively participate in this fast-moving digital world. They have to learn to distinguish between valuable information and mere opinion-making.

Nevertheless, it is natural to ask: How can trust in democracy be regained? Both political actors and educational institutions are in demand here. Current trends show that commitment is needed to strengthen young people's trust in political decision-making processes. Mayor Schranz's initiative is a step in the right direction.

The dialogue in the council chamber is symbolic of a growing movement that aims to involve young people in public life and promote discussions. Whether through social media or face-to-face conversations, the voice of youth needs to be heard, especially at a time when political issues are more explosive than ever before.