The Kids Aren’t Alright: A Generation with Future Anxiety?

Interactive Debate

Climate change, wars, inflation: the young generation is growing up in an age of numerous crises. At the same time, our society is experiencing a shift to the right, which is particularly noticeable in the East and among young people. In the recent state elections in Brandenburg, Thuringia and Saxony, right-wing parties such as the AfD were able to gain votes, particularly among young voters. At the same time, many citizens are committed to democracy. At demonstrations, especially in rural areas of eastern Germany, they are trying to counter the current political mood.

What motivates young people in eastern Germany? How do they experience political developments in the country? What fears, ideas and hopes do they bring with them and how do they view the future? And how do people from other generations perceive these challenges?

In this interactive participatory debate, moderated by journalist Nhi Le, we not only want to talk about the concerns and perspectives of the younger generation, but also promote an exchange between the generations. Every voice counts - whether young or old. All perspectives are welcome and necessary to paint a comprehensive picture of social challenges and opportunities. The audience is invited to actively participate, ask questions and contribute their own opinions. The aim is to talk together about fears, ideas and visions for the future and to learn from each other.

Discuss with our experts:

● Dr. Axel Salheiser, Scientific Director of the Institute for Democracy and Civil Society Jena

● Dr. Manès Weisskircher, Head of the REXKLIMA junior research group, TU Dresden

● Emilia Henkel, PhD student and research assistant at the Chair of Modern History/Contemporary History, Friedrich Schiller University Jena.

● N.N.

Moderation: Nhi Le, freelance journalist

Format: The debate format is based on the style of the British House of Commons debate. During the debate, all participants are invited to show their opinion by choosing and changing their seat.

Wissenschaft kontrovers is an interactive debate series organized by Wissenschaft im Dialog, which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research in the Science Year 2024 - Freedom.