Munich, June 17 – The Technical University of Munich (TUM) has announced the establishment of a new ‘Forum for Freedom and Democracy at TUM,’ aiming to counteract the declining public trust in democratic institutions. Located at the university’s main campus in the Maxvorstadt district, the forum will serve as an open space for encounter and discourse, promoting democratic education and values across generations.
TUM Responds to Declining Democratic Trust
The initiative comes at a critical time, as a study by the Körber Foundation indicates a significant drop in trust in democracy among Germans. In the past year, only 45 percent of Germans expressed trust in democracy, a decrease from 54 percent in 2023. TUM’s new forum seeks to reverse this trend by creating ‘new spaces for mutual listening’ and strengthening societal cohesion.
The renovated building at Gabelsbergerstraße 39 will house various facilities, including event and workshop areas, laboratories for democratic media design, and dedicated dialogue and seminar rooms. These spaces are designed to bring together individuals from education, business, society, and politics, fostering constructive exchanges and collaborative efforts.
Heart of the Forum: The ‘Democracy Co-Lab’
A central component of the forum is the ‘Democracy Co-Lab,’ which conceptualizes political education as an ‘active design element.’ This approach emphasizes interactive formats and practical engagement to deepen understanding and commitment to democratic principles. The forum will also feature exhibitions and interactive programs aimed at enhancing community bonds and civic participation.
TUM President Emphasizes Societal Responsibility
TUM President Thomas F. Hofmann underscored the university’s broader societal responsibility. He stated that TUM is committed not only to research and innovation but also to imparting democratic values and educating responsible, cosmopolitan individuals. This commitment reflects a comprehensive vision of the university’s role in society, extending beyond academic pursuits to civic engagement.
The establishment of the ‘Forum for Freedom and Democracy’ highlights TUM’s proactive stance in addressing contemporary societal challenges. By providing a platform for critical discussion and democratic education, the university aims to contribute significantly to strengthening democratic resilience and fostering an informed, engaged citizenry.
The initiative is expected to attract a diverse range of participants and become a key hub for democratic discourse in Bavaria and beyond. Further details on upcoming events and programs will be announced by TUM in the coming weeks.
Source: https://www.br.de/nachrichten/bayern/tu-muenchen-gruendet-neues-demokratie-forum,VMo3txC
