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Democracy Day 2026

Office for Gender Equality and Diversity

For an Open Society

Democracy Needs Engagement

Democracy thrives on participation – and that is exactly what we want to encourage with Democracy Day on  22 October 2026! Shortly after German Unity Day, we are making a statement for democratic engagement, especially at universities. What role do universities play in a democratic society? What positive influence can actors from academia and research have? How can we inspire young people at HHN to embrace democracy?

Democracy Day is intended to be a space for dialogue, participation, and shared reflection on our responsibilities in a democratic society – at the university and beyond.

Demokratietag HHN
Für eine offene Gesellschaft 5.12.24

About the "Open Society" Event Series

HHN is committed to fostering a culture of mutual respect, appreciation, and recognition of diversity. These core values are firmly embedded in the university's mission statement. To live up to this commitment and our responsibilities to society, we want to create spaces for debate where open discussion and constructive disagreement are once again possible. That is precisely what our event series "For an Open Society" stands for.

Why a Democracy Day at HHN?

Democracy enables everyone to contribute their views and make decisions together. It protects freedom, diversity, and equal rights – values that are also lived out at a university and are essential for an open and fair community. Only when all those involved are heard and able to contribute their ideas can teaching, research, and campus life remain vibrant and future-ready.


Beyond this, universities play a special role in the creation and dissemination of knowledge within society. This is particularly significant at HHN, where future-oriented topics such as Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health are increasingly shaping the way we live together and influencing democracy itself.

How Can I Get Involved?

At the university, you can actively help shape democracy by getting involved in student councils, committees, or projects. Participating in events such as Democracy Day also offers an opportunity to contribute your own ideas and take part in discussions. Those who get involved strengthen campus life as a whole and help ensure that diverse voices are heard.


Would you like to spontaneously contribute a programme item to Democracy Day? Send us an email: referatgd@hs-heilbronn.de

Review

Demokratietag HHN

Democracy Day 2025

In 2025, the first Democracy Day took place at the HHN. The HHN demonstrated its commitment through a themed bookstall in the LIV, several information stands, the escape game ‘Save Democracy’ and numerous online talks, including the keynote address ‘Between High-Tech and Regression. What Matters Now for Academia if It Wants to Preserve Its Freedom and Diversity” by Jan-Martin Wiarda. The event concluded with a panel discussion entitled “For an Open Society: Participation, Engagement and the Future of Democracy” at the TechCampus.

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