Democratic cohesion amid the sweltering heat of the city
To mark the 77th anniversary of the Basic Law, we have joined forces with the Centre for City Futures at Ruhr University Bochum on 23 May 2026, as part of the ‘Bochum bleibt beteiligt’ action day, to bring academia, democracy and urban society closer together in Bochum city centre. Despite the hot weather, many people braved the heat to join us: at the quiz table, for talks and in-depth discussions with voluntary initiatives. Here, people were literally sweating for democracy.
A quiz on the Basic Law got passers-by engaged right at the entrance, encouraging them to think about issues of democracy and volunteering (in Bochum). Copies of the Basic Law were also successfully distributed in the pedestrian zone and at the weekly markets, where stimulating conversations took place, a birthday song was sung for the Basic Law, and the odd ‘democracy cube’ was kicked about.
Volunteering close up at the “Market of Opportunities”
On the first floor, visitors were able to explore these questions in more depth through face-to-face conversations with local associations, initiatives and social organisations, and even take home some small prizes. There was a lively exchange of views, and the Basic Law Jenga game proved particularly popular with visitors.
A deep dive into the Basic Law with talks from the RUB
Academics from Ruhr University gave short talks offering insights into current social issues – such as democratic participation, new forms of engagement among young people, and the protection of fundamental democratic values.
Democracy Fitness live with Jens Feddersen
Visitors found a rather different kind of sport on the top floor in the workshops with Jens Feddersen. Here, they were able to discover and strengthen their own ‘democracy muscles’. “Because we believe that democracy should be practised every day and that it can also be trained,” said the workshop leader.
Closing ceremony
The event concluded with the ceremonial presentation of the GEMI Youth Prize, honouring young adults with an international family background who are involved in voluntary work. This year’s theme was, fittingly, Article 5 of the German Basic Law: freedom of information, the press, the arts and science.
