What democracy means to us
For us as an association, democracy is much more than a political system – it is a fundamental principle of our actions and values. Democracy stands for participation, dialogue, and active involvement of all people, regardless of age, background, or experience.
In our work, we promote awareness of democratic processes by creating spaces for intergenerational exchange, social engagement, and critical thinking. Through our educational projects, such as „Fit 4 Democracy“, we encourage people, especially younger and older generations, to raise their voices and actively contribute to shaping our society.
Our goal is to strengthen democracy in Europe by providing knowledge, highlighting opportunities for participation, and fostering solidarity. Only through active engagement and shared responsibility can we build an open, just, and peaceful society.
What does democracy mean to you?
We started with a small written survey and short video interviews during a meeting of ViMA Volunteers in December 2024.
Watch the videos, read the contributions, get inspired… And ideally, send us your personal statement at democracy@ileu.net
Find the survey results here.
Democracy means living in freedom, having an opinion, and having many political, cultural, and social opportunities. –Christiane Dech
Freedom of speech, rule by the people. –Jan Leger
Democracy is freedom of choice, equality, and responsibility. It is based on dialogue, human rights, and active civic participation. It is not just about influencing society but also about the duty to protect its values and build a just future. –Oleksii Dremliuk
The only way a diverse society can be fairly organized. –David Fichtner
It is a living artwork where every individual contributes to shaping society. It is a space where voices and ideas harmonize. In this creative process, everyone has the right to express their opinion and actively participate in shaping their future. –Maria Ilieva
Democracy means that power comes from the people. Citizens have the right to participate through elections, referendums, etc., and can thus influence decisions. Human rights, freedom of speech, and other fundamental human rights hold great importance. –Sybille Mann
Democracy for me means tolerance, respect, understanding, and acceptance of diversity. –Vojislav Milunov
Democracy begins within us – in our thoughts, words, and actions. It means love and responsibility for others, not just for ourselves. When we stand up for one another, we not only improve our own lives but also those of our friends, colleagues, our society, and the world. –Ruslana Onopko
Mutual respect. To respect another person, group, ethnicity, or nation, one must know them. Education, information, and exchange are fundamental to democracy. –Ingrid Pengl
Personally, I see the concept of democracy as a kind of place where people can come together freely and participate in the political, social, economic, and cultural life of a country or people. –Francesco Perpolli
As a form of government, but also in smaller social interactions—engaging with one another, listening to different opinions, enabling everyone's participation, and making decisions together. Politically, democracy means to me that the people decide. –Jana Pulli
Not perfect, but the best we have! –Astrid Winkle
Democracy means that all people have the right to participate in decisions and express their opinions freely. –Sofiia Tkachuk
Democracy, for me, means freedom, responsibility, and opportunity. The freedom to express our opinions and shape our lives. The responsibility to stand up for the common good and the opportunity to create a just society together. –Sara Petricevic
Everyone has the right to free speech, fair elections, and equal rights. In a democracy, there is no dictatorship—the government must listen to the people. Respect for all individuals is crucial, and everyone should have the chance to advocate for change. –Daria Tropp
Democracy is one of the most important foundations of our society. The right to express our opinion freely, to vote, and to participate in decision-making is essential for our freedom and should not be taken for granted; it must be protected. –Sanjivani Jhamb