Die Neue Gesellschaft
Die Neue Gesellschaft e.V. is a non-profit organization in Hamburg that has been promoting political education since 1954. Through seminars and events, it strengthens democracy and understanding of social issues. The organization focuses on quality and sustainability in education.
Die Neue Gesellschaft e.V.
editAbout Us
editDie Neue Gesellschaft e.V. is a registered, non-profit association that has been active in political education since its founding in 1954 by former social democratic resistance fighters of the Nazi dictatorship in Hamburg, such as Hellmut Kalbitzer. The association works politically independently and is primarily funded by resources from the State Center for Political Education of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg as well as the Federal Center for Political Education.
Key Products and Services
editDie Neue Gesellschaft offers a variety of seminars, events, educational leave, and study trips that contribute to political information and discussion. These offerings are designed to create forums for conversations and encounters to promote understanding and tolerance. The topics of the events reflect the current politically sensitive issues of our time and particularly include uncomfortable questions that are often inadequately discussed in political debates[2][4].
Main Mission and Values
editThe main mission of Die Neue Gesellschaft is to contribute to practiced democracy and support the functioning of vibrant democracy. The association is committed to the guiding principle of the "responsible citizen" and promotes the judgment and critical thinking skills of the participants. It is about encouraging people to reflect on their own opinions, engage with foreign opinions, intervene in political decision-making processes, and take co-responsibility for their own living environment and society[2][4].
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editDie Neue Gesellschaft is committed to a sustainable and inclusive society. Through its events and seminars, the association helps ensure that political education remains accessible and that the costs for participants are affordable. The quality of the events is ensured through voluntary self-monitoring and independent reviewers, which is confirmed by the designation "Certified Continuing Education Institution"[4].
Memberships and Network
editThe association is a member of the umbrella organization Working Group of Democratic Educational Institutions (ADB) and the Association for Quality Assurance in Continuing Education Hamburg e.V. These memberships underscore Die Neue Gesellschaft's commitment to high-quality political education and quality assurance[4].
History and Continuation
editDespite financial challenges, such as significant budget cuts in 2006, the association was able to secure its continuation through a rigorous restructuring plan and the dedicated work of Joachim Federwisch. Today, over 60 years after its founding, Die Neue Gesellschaft remains an important player in political education and discussion in Hamburg[2].