First Townhall discussion with a good response
The first Townhall Dialogue under the motto “Vision: Europe – How do we want to live in Europe in the future?” took place yesterday in the Kaiserin-Adelheid-Foyer. The City of Magdeburg and the Emperor Otto Cultural Foundation had invited people to the Old Town Hall and around 20 citizens responded to the invitation, despite the midsummer temperatures. Ralf Beste, Head of Department for Culture and Society at the Federal Foreign Office, and Frank Leeb, Head of the EUROPE DIRECT office in Magdeburg, were guests at the event.
Otto the Great left Magdeburg a significant historical legacy: It was under his reign that the beginnings of the European world of states were founded. By awarding the Emperor Otto Prize to personalities who are committed to a peaceful Europe, we are commemorating him and celebrating Europe and our common European identity.
However, in a time of crises and conflicts such as the one we are currently experiencing, the European idea is also under massive pressure and is even being called into question. Many citizens are preoccupied with thoughts, concerns and worries about the future of Europe. What can I do as a citizen to make Europe liveable and peaceful? How can I contribute my ideas? How can I get involved? Who are my supporters and contacts?
The town hall discussion offered an excellent opportunity to discuss these issues with two experts, ask questions and find out background information, which was very well received. The portfolio of questions was wide-ranging, the need for discussion and exchange was great and so guests and speakers agreed that such a Townhall discussion should be repeated soon.
(C) State Centre for Political Education
Gallery
Townhall talk in the Adelheid Foyer of the Old Town Hall
