Students Experience Local Democracy Firsthand

Following its successful premiere two years ago, the Youth and Democracy Education Team within the City of Salzgitter’s Department of Children, Youth, and Family Services has once again invited the nonprofit organization “Politik zum Anfassen” to participate in the “Children’s Council” simulation game.

Over the course of two days, 62 students learned about local political processes.

Christian Striese, Deputy Mayor of the City of Salzgitter, opened the event and warmly welcomed the children on behalf of Mayor Frank Klingebiel, the City Council, and the city administration.

Over the course of two days, 62 students from the elementary schools in Fredenberg, Dürrering, Sonnenberg, Ringelheim, Ostertal, and Steterburg had the opportunity to learn about local political processes and step into the role of council members themselves.

During the simulation, the children developed their own ideas for their city. These were first discussed in “children’s committees” and then, on the second day of the event, debated and put to a vote in a simulated council meeting held in the council chamber. This council meeting, organized by the children, was moderated by Council Chair Michael Letter and followed the format of a regular council meeting. The girls and boys discussed their motions, presented arguments, and made democratic decisions in accordance with the rules governing local government committees. Seventeen motions were introduced and debated. The ideas developed included, among other things, a new playground, environmental initiatives, helping the homeless, and much more.

The students were welcomed in the council chamber by Christian Striese, Second Mayor of the City of Salzgitter.

The students were supported in this effort by council members Andrea Kempe (CDU), Michael Letter (SPD), Astrid Penke (CDU), Lars Tietjen (Die PARTEI), and Christian Hasse (SPD caucus leader), who gave the children insights into local politics and accompanied them during the deliberations.

“The simulation game vividly demonstrates to the children how democracy works. They learn that differing opinions are part of the process, that compromises must be reached, and that every vote counts. It’s impressive to see the dedication with which the children contribute their ideas,” says Bernadeta Kocot-Miczka, team leader for youth and democracy education.

With this simulation game, the city of Salzgitter is setting an example for political education and democratic participation. The ideas developed during the simulation will be presented to the Salzgitter City Council at its meeting on September 30.

More about the youth and democracy education team