Successors of the last generation want “peaceful revolution”
From Friday to Sunday, key issues of democracy and society will be discussed in front of the German Bundestag in Berlin. Initiated by the Neue Generation group , which emerged from the Letzte Generation, a panel of 60 citizens formed by drawing lots will gather in a domed tent. The goal of the three-day event is to formulate principles for a new generation of democracy.
The so-called People's Parliament sees itself as a response to the growing dissatisfaction of many people with the existing political system. In the run-up to the meeting, representatives and supporters of the initiative expressed criticism of the current state of democracy. Former SPD member of the Bundestag Marco Bülow particularly criticized the increasing influence of economic interests on political decisions. The so-called competition of ideas, which should be a part of democracy, has been replaced by "profit interests and party tactics." "The parliament in which I worked 19 years ago is no longer the same as it is today," Bülow said.
The idea of the randomly selected forum is intended to counteract this development. Its aim is to bring people from diverse backgrounds together to engage in dialogue without party pressure. Initiator Jascha Rohr, a philosopher and expert in participatory design processes, sees the event as an attempt to update the "operating system of democracy," which has remained largely unchanged for decades. Creative and emotional forms of expression should be given equal space, as should traditional discussion elements. In terms of content, the People's Parliament should primarily address the question of how the influence of money on society and democracy can be reduced.
Emma Dorow, an activist with the New Generation, also points to the seriousness of the climate crisis and social division. The "crisis of democracy" also demands fundamental change: "This system will collapse like a house of cards," she says, calling for a "peaceful, democratic revolution." This should take place in the form of additional, citizen-oriented bodies such as the People's Parliament.
Lars Werner, also part of the movement, emphasized the importance of protest and peaceful debate. It's about encouraging people to get involved, build trust, and work together for a better world. Criticism of the project is also welcome – it's part of the democratic process.
Berliner-zeitung
