Celebrating International Day of Democracy: Emphasis on Diversity and Unity
In the heart of Germany, the city of Braunschweig celebrated the International Day of Democracy, emphasizing diversity and solidarity. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007, this day aims to promote and maintain democratic principles.
Dr. Thorsten Kornblum, the Mayor of Braunschweig, stressed the importance of democracy, diversity, and tolerance during the celebrations. He underscored the inviolable dignity of every human being, regardless of origin, religion, political conviction, social status, or sexual orientation, as the foundation of society.
Over 30 initiatives and associations participated in the events, contributing to a vibrant and creative atmosphere. Alan Brodkorb, Managing Director of the Training Workshop Braunschweig e.V., expressed satisfaction with the participation and creativity of these initiatives.
On September 15, 2025, various actors from Braunschweig and the region signed a joint declaration for diversity, democracy, and human dignity. This declaration was a significant step towards fostering cohesion in the city, with the City of Braunschweig represented by Mayor Dr. Thorsten Kornblum, IG Metall Braunschweig represented by Garnet Alps, alongside trade unions, employers, cities, associations, science institutions, sports, and religious communities, as part of the #buntstadt-Braunschweig initiative.
The Buntstadt conference in March resulted in over 30 events spread across the entire city. These events aimed to stand up against discrimination, hatred, and exclusion in the workplace, schools, universities, and society.
Lars Alt, Managing Director of the Employers' Association Region Braunschweig, shared stories of immigrants who came to Braunschweig for freedom, justice, and dignity. He emphasized that our companies and organizations reflect the diversity of society, and all people who work with us are our colleagues, neighbors, and friends.
Dr. Britta Wittner, Cooperation Office Universities-Gewerkschaften Braunschweig, stressed the importance of democracy in both science and the workplace. She underscored the significance of diversity and democracy in the #buntstadt alliance, as highlighted by Garnet Alps, the First Representative of IG Metall Braunschweig.
The city of Braunschweig has also signed a declaration for diversity and cohesion. This declaration reaffirms the city's commitment to protecting and preserving the values that the creators of the Basic Law committed to over 75 years ago.
It's important to remember that less than half of the world's population lives in a democracy, and the trend is decreasing. We all bear responsibility in protecting democracy and the dignity of humans. Together, we stand up for everyone to have the same chances and rights, regardless of origin or other personal characteristics, and condemn any form of racism and human hatred.
Employers, trade unions, cities, associations, science, institutions, religious communities, and sports are standing together for the values that make society strong and cohesive. By promoting diversity and democracy, we can build a more inclusive and equitable society in Braunschweig and beyond.
