Participation in open child and youth work

"Whether major projects such as Stuttgart 21, the energy transition or the redesign of a town square - citizens are getting more involved than ever and are looking for new ways to get involved and participate in politics. No elected official or member of the administration can afford to ignore this powerful movement." (Nanz/Fritsche;2012;146) "A democracy that not only functions, but also works according to its concept, requires responsible people. Realized democracy can only be imagined as a society of mature people." (Adorno;1971;107) In participatory projects, children and young people not only learn to represent their needs and interests, they also learn negotiation processes and how to engage with the needs of others. There are few things that can prevent violence and terror as much as understanding others. At the same time, it enables them to actively participate in democratic processes.