"Democracy lives!": Hanau continues commitment to democracy and diversity
Hanau has applied for renewed funding under the federal Living Democracy! programme, seeking up to €158,000 per year from 2026. The city has participated in the initiative for six years, delivering 75 projects that engage around 1,800 young people annually. The programme now takes on added significance following the 2020 racist attack that reshaped local efforts around remembrance and cohesion.
Since 2018, Hanau has been part of Living Democracy!, a federal scheme run by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH. The programme supports educational, participatory, and commemorative projects, with a strong focus on children and young people. Over six years, 34 local organisations have carried out 75 initiatives under the scheme.
The 2020 racist attack on 19 February marked a turning point for the city’s approach. In response, themes of remembrance, reconciliation, and social unity became central to its *Living Democracy!* projects. The pandemic also pushed the programme to adopt new digital formats, ensuring democratic participation could continue despite restrictions. The Workers’ Welfare Association (AWO) Hanau will manage the programme’s coordination and specialist office. Mayor Dr. Maximilian Bieri emphasised the city’s commitment, stating that the aim is to deepen democratic engagement and strengthen civic involvement across urban society.
With the new funding application, Hanau seeks to expand its long-running work under Living Democracy!. The programme has already reached thousands of young people through diverse projects. If approved, the €158,000 annual budget will support further initiatives focused on education, participation, and the city’s ongoing response to past violence.
