Europa - Ein Versprechen, das uns alle (ver)bindet. Warum ist ein Gespräch über europäische Werte aktuell besonders wichtig?

In the organizer's words:

Monday, May 11, 19:00 - 21:00 Regional Representation of the European Commission in Bonn I Bundeskanzlerplatz 2d 53113 Bonn Please register here

"Europe is more than a geographical area or a political institution. Europe is a shared promise of values, of human dignity, freedom and equality. In times when these values are under pressure, it is our task not only to defend them, but also to renegotiate them: with respect, openness and the courage to debate. Today, we want to hear how European values can be lived, interpreted and perhaps even further developed." What does it mean to commit to Europe in 2026?

An evening in discussion format is dedicated to these questions. The focus is not on the abstract history of ideas, but on the question of what European values mean in concrete terms in everyday life and in our dealings with one another.

What can you expect? After a welcome and brief introduction by Dr. Stefan Lock for the Regional Representation of the European Commission, three panelists will shed light on different aspects:

Politics & Reality:

Sally Lisa Starken is a freelance journalist, bestselling author and podcaster. With a passion for political education, she makes complex topics understandable - whether in front of the camera, on stage or on social media. With her precise view of social and political dynamics, she sheds light on current challenges and has made a name for herself as a sought-after voice in the public debate, particularly on the topics of right-wing extremism, populism, political protests and social injustice. Her aim is to retell politics and make it more accessible so that everyone can understand it better.

How are values such as democracy, the rule of law and solidarity represented in politics?

Society & Identity:

Rainald Manthe is a sociologist and author and is concerned with the question of what analogous meeting places a diverse European democracy needs, how they can be created and how trust in democracy can be regained. How and where do people meet each other in everyday life? How does democratic legitimacy arise from this?

Why has trust in a functioning democracy been destroyed? How can we regain it?

What role do the local area and education play for democracy and Europe?

Future & Opportunities:

Nadine Wagenaar is an influencer and author and gives an insight into identity through employment social participation.

How do we define ourselves as working people within society?

European values and a four-day week, to what extent do we want to work and how? What are smart political decisions?

The panel discussion and the discussion with the participants will be moderated by Anke Wekerle. It is also about your questions, your experiences, your perspectives. Responsibility means getting involved.