Defensive Democracy in Erfurt: An evening about the protection of our freedom
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Defensive Democracy: Erfurt discusses the protection of freedom
How resilient is our democracy – and what responsibility do the state, institutions, and civil society bear? These questions will be central to a public panel discussion on Tuesday, November 24, 2026, at the Memorial Site Topf & Söhne in Erfurt.
Legal, historical, and political perspectives
Dr. Klaus-Dieter von der Weiden, President of the Thuringian Constitutional Court, will contribute the legal perspective to the discussion. Prof. Dr. Jens-Christian Wagner, Director of the Buchenwald and Mittelbau-Dora Memorials Foundation, will examine the topic from a historical viewpoint. The moderation will be led by Madeleine Henfling, Campaigner from Campact e.V. and former Vice President of the Thuringian Parliament.
Democracy under pressure
Globalization, the climate crisis, wars, and societal polarization pose significant challenges to democratic systems. The panel discussion will explore how democratic institutions and engaged citizens can respond to threats from within and outside. Central themes include fundamental rights, the rule of law, political responsibility, and the role of an active civil society.
An evening at the Memorial Site Topf & Söhne
The Memorial Site Topf & Söhne combines historical educational work with current questions of social responsibility. The special atmosphere of the learning and memorial site creates a focused environment for a conversation linking the past and the present. Visitors can expect a professionally informed event with diverse perspectives and space for democratic exchange.
Event experience with social relevance
The organization by the Erfurt city administration and the Memorial Site Topf & Söhne stands for careful event planning and a clear target audience: The panel is aimed at all those interested in democracy, history, political education, and the future of the community. In collaboration with Omas gegen Rechts Erfurt e.V., the evening sends a signal for engagement, responsibility, and human rights.
The panel discussion offers no simple answers but opens a differentiated exchange about the possibilities and limits of a defensive democracy. Those who want to consider current political questions with legal, historical, and civil society expertise will experience an inspiring evening in Erfurt with high social significance.
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