A traveling exhibition by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation invites dialogue about democracy until June 26th
The traveling exhibition "Strengthening Democracy – Combating Right-Wing Extremism" is on display at the Groß-Gerau District Office until June 26, 2026. Around 30 representatives from politics and civil society attended the opening of the exhibition on June 1st in the foyer of the district administration building. The event was organized by the district youth services and the Groß-Gerau district youth education center.
Democracy is not something to be taken for granted
In his speech, District Administrator Thomas Will emphasized the importance of democratic values and pointed out that only a comparatively small proportion of people worldwide live in democratic societies.
Far-right movements attack democracy, freedom, and human dignity. Democracy is therefore not something to be taken for granted, but must be constantly relearned, defended, and shaped. The exhibition makes an important contribution to this by strengthening democratic attitudes and encouraging people to stand up for these values.
Human rights and democracy belong together
Following the opening, social scientist Manuel Glittenberg from the German Society for Democratic Education spoke on the topic of "What to do! Democracy and human rights education about and against right-wing extremism today".
Glittenberg emphasized that democracy and universal human rights are inextricably linked. The basis for this is Article 1 of the Basic Law, which defines human dignity as inviolable and obligates the state to protect it.
The speaker explained that far-right groups frequently use the concept of freedom of expression to question the equality of all people. Human rights, however, are indivisible and protected by the prohibition of discrimination. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but it has its limits where the dignity of others is violated.
Empathy as the foundation of a democratic community
During the interactive presentation, participants reflected on their own understanding of democracy. Glittenberg emphasized the importance of participation and co-determination for a vibrant democracy.
In conclusion, he focused on the perspective of those affected by exclusion and discrimination. He argued that greater empathy and a willingness to acknowledge the suffering of others are essential prerequisites for a strong democratic community.
Exhibition with accompanying program for schools
The traveling exhibition of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation uses steles, interactive elements and a media table to inform about fundamental democratic values and the dangers of right-wing extremism.
Young people in particular should be encouraged to engage with social issues and to actively stand up for democratic values.
To accompany the exhibition, the Groß-Gerau district's youth education center is organizing an extensive supporting program. This includes guided visits to the exhibition for approximately 190 students.
The exhibition can be viewed at the Groß-Gerau District Office until June 26, 2026. Further information is available from the Groß-Gerau District Youth Education Center.
Featured image: What is right-wing populism? The Friedrich Ebert Foundation's exhibition "Strengthening Democracy – Combating Right-Wing Extremism" in the foyer of the district administration building provides answers to this question. District Administrator Thomas Will opened the exhibition, which runs until June 26, 2026, a few days ago. Photo: District Administration
(KREIS GROSS-GERAU – RED/PSKGG)
