Raise your voice.

How can we describe the current state of democracy in our societies? Are we facing authoritarian temptations? Do we sense an erosion of democratic structures? What opportunities of democratic participation can we engage in? Can we still cope with radicalized groups that threaten social coherence? And how can we preserve a political culture that features open dialogue and appreciates diversity? With this project, we will path the way to make things happen. We will share our experiences, our stories, and our visions. We will use them to understand each other, to compare our narratives, to learn about the different realities of political development in our countries, to understand the concept of diversity and to design our future projects as activists of civil society. We will raise our voices; we will provide a space to be heard for those who doubt; we will create a platform for those who want to act. We will do so in four steps:

1. Building democracy: Which paths democratic participation did we take in each country? Which choices did we make and where are we at now? Participants will give accounts and updates on political development and personal involvement.

2. overcoming restrictions: Where are the limits of freedom and the challenges calling for change? How can we counter religious and political extremism? We will use simulation games and first-hand reports to identify the issues and find solutions. Activists will share their concepts and practical methods.

3. Living diversity: How do we handle diversity in our societies? How can we develop true and serious dialogue? We will visit NGOs, share best practice and use approaches on diversity as an indicator on freedom and democracy.

4. Strengthening Coherence: How can we establish structures that keep society together? How can we strengthen democratic participation in follow-up activities back home? This is what the project aims at: It will inspire participants to make use of their skills, to build up capacities, take over responsibility and to continue their engagement in civil society.