Long Night of Democracy: Dialogue instead of polarization in Kiel!

Long Night of Democracy: Dialogue instead of polarization in Kiel!

On July 14, 2025, a very special event will take place in Kiel under the motto “Speaking & Listening”. Organized by the Cocina Coworking Kitchen and Mehr Democracy e.V., it will offer a protected space for the exchange of a wide range of perspectives as part of the Long Night of Democracy. In times of increasing social polarization, it is becoming increasingly difficult to conduct respectful dialogues. The organizers have therefore designed a format that focuses on empathetic exchange and brings in both personal experiences and perspectives on topics such as nutrition, participation and sustainability. Eating together creates a familiar atmosphere that makes encounters easier.

The challenges that increasing social fragmentation brings with it should not be underestimated. According to a study by the Berlin Science Center, differences in values ​​and realities of life - especially when it comes to the topics of social inequality, migration and climate change - are becoming insurmountable divides. A survey showed that 68% of Germans perceive an increasing division in society. This is alarming because public debates are often characterized by hardened fronts and irreconcilable positions, which endangers the feeling of social cohesion.

Challenges of polarization

A variety of factors underlie social polarization. Socioeconomic differences, demographic change and different realities of life – especially between urban and rural areas – contribute to this. Populist rhetoric and the instrumentalization of fears by the media are further exacerbating the conflicts. An analysis by the Reuters Institute shows that polarizing statements on social media generate 67% more engagement than balanced posts. This shows how social network algorithms promote polarizing content and thus distort perceptions, especially among young people.

Digital media as a participation platform

Amid these challenges, digital media offer new opportunities for social dialogue. Information can be disseminated quickly and widely, bringing political concerns and protests into focus. Activists use a variety of media to articulate their views, be it e-petitions or social media campaigns. The connection between online and offline protest is often close, which is underlined by hashtag activism. Digital participation is not only a tool, but also a place of protest.

With initiatives such as the “Digital Democracy Project” in Munich, a 45% increase in willingness to compromise in moderated online discussions was found in 2024. These successes make it clear that social cohesion can be increased through constructive journalism and scientifically based approaches. Frequent participation in community dialogue forums shows that such formats can improve mutual understanding by up to 62%.

In times when respectful exchange and mutual understanding are needed more than ever, events like “Speaking & Listening” could provide important impetus. The initiative aims to build bridges and get participants to engage with other perspectives while communicating about everyday and significant issues. The opportunity for positive change lies in supporting such dialogue formats, which can take place in both personal and digital spaces.

On July 14th, everyone who is interested is invited to come to Kiel and actively participate in this exchange. It is up to all of us to take a step towards more respectful coexistence.

For more information about this event, please visit More Democracy, MNU and bpb.