Democracy

United locally - for strong cooperation

The ‘United locally - for a strong togetherness’ programme promotes cohesion in smaller towns and villages in Germany. Committed individuals, associations and initiatives can contribute their ideas to strengthen respectful coexistence in their community.

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About the project

The nationwide project 'United locally - for a strong togetherness' is aimed at people who are committed to a respectful and strong togetherness in their community. The aim is not to talk about each other, but to work together. A wide range of stakeholders are invited - from local heritage associations, migrant self-organisations and sports clubs to rural women. The programme offers the opportunity to shape local life together in local alliances. People from villages and towns with a population of up to 20,000 can apply. Projects should last between 6 and 12 months.

Particular attention will be given to projects that encourage cooperation between different groups and organisations and that create new partnerships. In the long term, the development and strengthening of shared values should increase resilience against extremism and counter right-wing populist and radical tendencies.

The project is carried out in close cooperation between the Robert Bosch Stiftung and Änderwerk. The Änderwerk is a support organisation and implementation site for non-profit projects of all kinds, from art and culture to environmental protection and human rights. Änderwerk itself is a home for commitment and cohesion, offering the necessary support so that committed people and groups can better achieve their respective goals.

Correctiv's investigation into the AfD has made it clear that our democracy cannot be taken for granted. It has motivated many people to get involved in politics. People in smaller towns and villages have also organised themselves to actively stand up for democratic values. We want to support this commitment with low-threshold funding. It is important for us to build bridges between different ways of thinking and perspectives. As a society, we need to relearn how to tolerate differences and find the values that unite us.

Our motto is 'Don't complain, do it yourself'. We want to support people in actively shaping their community. By supporting various local initiatives or alliances, we aim to strengthen cooperation and networking. In particular, we support projects that create new or unusual partnerships and promote respectful coexistence.