Target Group:
Young adults (esp. students) from the USA and Germany.

The seminar is designed for young adults — university students from a variety of disciplines — from the United States and Germany who wish to deepen their understanding of democracy, political processes, and responses to global crises.

Few topics could be more urgent and relevant today, which is why we aim to explore them together with experts and with the very generation that will shape the future. These young leaders are the decision-makers of tomorrow, and to fulfill that role, they need not only solid knowledge but also meaningful opportunities to voice their opinions, share their ideas, and actively engage in open dialogue.

The goal of the seminar is to expand knowledge about democratic structures, current developments, and challenges in both countries while fostering exchange on different political cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Participants will engage with topics such as populism, trust in institutions, transatlantic relations, the rule of law, global insecurities, and societal transformations.

Methodologically, the seminar combines expert lectures, moderated discussions, interactive workshops, group work, and shared leisure activities to promote knowledge acquisition, reflection, and intercultural learning. Key highlights include intensive peer exchange, a professionally guided space for open and controversial discussions, and an excursion to a European institution that broadens perspectives and makes political processes tangible. In addition, the program strengthens critical thinking, enhances communicative and intercultural competencies, and supports the development of sustainable networks between young people from both countries.