"Youth Debates" — 25 Years of the Culture of Debate

For a quarter of a century, “Jugend debattiert” has been promoting democratic participation and critical thinking among young people, thereby laying an essential foundation for democracy. But what characterizes a healthy culture of debate? How do people debate in today’s society, and what does the culture of debate reveal about the state of democratic coexistence?

On Friday, November 6, at 4:00 p.m., Minister President Hendrik Wüst will speak at the Heinz Nixdorf MuseumsForum about the importance of a vibrant culture of debate, shifting perspectives, and tolerating differing opinions.

The North Rhine-Westphalian state champions of “Jugend debattiert” will offer insights into how a constructive culture of debate can be achieved.

In a subsequent panel discussion, Henriette Reker, former mayor of Cologne; political scientist Dr. Julia Schwanholz; British journalist John Kampfner; and Mo Asumang, director, host, and author, will examine the evolution of debate culture and the contribution of “Jugend debattiert.”
Charlott Hallier, a journalist and alumna of “Jugend debattiert,” will moderate the afternoon’s events.

The competition was launched in 2001 by Federal President Johannes Rau with the goal of bringing rhetoric back into schools. It has since become the largest program for the linguistic and political education of young people. The Heinz Nixdorf Foundation has supported the program since its inception.