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Securing democracy and strengthening cities are key tasks
At the New Year's reception of the City of Darmstadt on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at the darmstadtium Mayor Hanno Benz outlined the political guidelines for the coming years. Under the heading "Securing Democracy – Preserving Local Self-Government – Strengthening Cities," he addressed key challenges for Darmstadt and municipalities in general.
Democracy under pressure
Benz emphasized that the current social upheavals and crises are unsettling many people. At the same time, he reminded them that modern democracies offer a historically unique degree of freedom, rights, and self-determination. Echoing former Federal Minister of the Interior Gerhart Baum, Benz highlighted that democracy protects human dignity like no other form of government. However, democracy does not function automatically, but requires engaged and responsible citizens who are willing to assume responsibility for the common good.
Local self-government under financial constraints
A key focus of the speech was the role of local authorities as a cornerstone of the state structure. Benz emphasized that political decisions made at the local level directly shape people's everyday lives. With the local elections on March 15, 2026, in mind, he highlighted the importance of voluntary engagement in local politics.
At the same time, the mayor warned of the growing financial pressure on cities and municipalities. The number of tasks is increasing, while financial resources are limited. This is increasingly putting the principle of local self-government to the test. Benz called for a new municipal financial system that would restore a balance between revenues and responsibilities in order to safeguard the ability of cities to act.
Investments as a way to strengthen democracy
Benz emphasized that investments in infrastructure, social services, and culture not only bring about practical improvements but also strengthen trust in democracy. He cited the renovation of the Mühltal swimming pool, the construction of the new roller sports hall, the North fire station, the Scentral drug support center, the Rheinstraße bridge, and the stable cultural budget as examples.
The mayor cited the merger of the Darmstadt Clinic with the Elisabethenstift and the merger of the Darmstadt Savings Bank with the Dieburg Savings Bank .
Shaping growth and modernizing administration
To continue Darmstadt's economic success, Benz advocated for a restructuring of the city's economic development agency. This agency must better connect businesses, cutting-edge research, and market readiness, and consider issues such as inner-city development, culture, economic promotion, and city marketing holistically. Digital administrative processes, inter-municipal cooperation, and proactive city center management are key components of this restructuring. Growth must be managed judiciously, particularly regarding issues like the energy transition and municipal heat planning.
A clear stance against extremism
In the final part of his speech, Benz clearly positioned himself against anti-democratic tendencies from both the right and the left. As mayor, he could not and would not remain neutral towards enemies of democracy. At the same time, he warned against equating democratic parties with extremists, as this too weakens democracy. The crucial factor, he emphasized, was the unity of all democrats.
Benz emphasized that people's concerns, such as those regarding security or migration, must be taken seriously. However, the response must be effective, rule-of-law-based policies. In Darmstadt, measures such as increased police presence, improved lighting, video surveillance, social work, and prevention programs have been implemented.
With regard to the Jewish community, Benz emphasized that Jewish life is an integral and indispensable part of Darmstadt's identity. He announced his intention to propose a significant increase in municipal funding to the political bodies.
Appeal for the local elections
In closing, Mayor Benz called for continued commitment to an open, socially just, and pragmatic Darmstadt. The local elections on March 15, 2026, will decide not only who holds office, but also the face of the city. Democracy is not something to be taken for granted, but must be shaped and defended by everyone.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip)
