Living Democracy – A Conversation

What role do architecture, culture, and public spaces play in shaping how we live together? How can we keep democratic societies—on both a large and small scale—viable and vibrant? The panel discussion kicks off the film evening “Living Democracy.”

Democracy doesn’t end at the ballot box—it’s also reflected in how we live, work, and interact with one another in our cities. At the same time, nearly one-third of Vienna’s residents are excluded from elections—and thus from the right to political participation—because they lack Austrian citizenship.

How can we ensure democratic participation for as many people as possible? What role do institutions—such as schools, museums, and advocacy groups—play in this regard? Representatives from public administration, urban planning, architecture, and film will discuss forms of participation, belonging, and representation in a diverse urban society.

Discussion:
Antonia Dika, Architect
Wencke Hertzsch, Department Head Office for Participation and Empowerment
Thomas Ritt, Arbeiterkammer Wien
Jola Wieczorek, Documentary Filmmaker

Moderated by: Lene Benz, Az W; Marlene Rutzendorfer, wonderland

An event in cooperation with the Büro für Mitwirkung, Abteilung Energieplanung der Stadt Wien and the Arbeiterkammer Wien