Partnership for Democracy Artland

Since the summer of 2025, the joint municipality of Artland has been part of the federal programme "Demokratie leben!". The Partnership for Democracy Artland (PfD Artland) was established to provide a platform for associations, schools, initiatives and committed citizens to work together in support of democracy, diversity and respectful coexistence.

One of the first highlights was the democracy conference held at the Franziskus-Haus in Quakenbrück. Stephan Kramer, President of the Thuringian Office for the Protection of the Constitution, delivered the keynote speech. In his keynote speech, he emphasised the urgent need to strengthen democratic structures at the local level, especially in light of increasing polarisation, disinformation and open hostility. Kramer called for a sober yet clear-eyed view of anti-democratic developments, stressing the importance of local networks: Democracy needs places 'where people from very different backgrounds can engage in dialogue and develop common solutions'.

The conference brought together individuals from civil society, the administration, schools and associations. It marked the beginning of an alliance that has established numerous contacts and initiated collaborations in the first few months alone, ranging from youth projects and intercultural initiatives to workshops on fake news and democratic debate.

Today, PfD Artland is well established:

• The coordination and specialist office provides advice, networking opportunities, and support to project organisers.
• Small organisations can easily apply for support through the initiative fund.
• The Alliance Committee sets priorities and ensures that projects are implemented effectively and in line with needs.
• Interested parties can find the latest information, insights and opportunities to get involved at pfdartland.de and @pfdartland.

The message is clear: anyone looking to promote democracy and diversity in Artland must engage with PfD.