Kick-off for Vienna’s Democracy Year: Citizens Invited to Actively Participate – New Funding Programme Starts in 2025
Vienna has been named the European Capital of Democracy for 2024/25. On Tuesday evening, a ceremonial event marked the commencement of Vienna’s Democracy Year. After a two-stage selection process last year, Vienna was chosen from a shortlist of eight cities, becoming the second city to hold the title after Barcelona. As the European Capital of Democracy, Vienna will host a diverse year-long programme, encouraging all residents to actively shape and participate in events. A new funding programme supporting citizen-driven democracy projects will follow in 2025.
“This title recognises Vienna’s dedication to democracy and citizen participation. It also serves as a call to action. Democracy is not a given; it is a shared responsibility requiring daily renewal. As the European Capital of Democracy, Vienna will demonstrate how innovative projects strengthen social cohesion through participation,” said the Mayor of City of Vienna, Michael Ludwig.
The Executive Councillor for Democracy, Jürgen Czernohorszky emphasised, “In Vienna, every voice matters. This year, we aim to expand existing opportunities for participation and amplify voices that have not yet been fully heard. Increased participation leads to a stronger future for our city.”
Thomas Weber, democracy spokesperson for NEOS Vienna, stated, “Being named the European Capital of Democracy is both an honour and a testament to our commitment to making democracy tangible for everyone. Through the Democracy Year in Vienna, we will address current challenges, encourage collective action, and shape a positive future.”
A Diverse Programme for Participation
The Democracy Year will feature a wide-ranging programme, encouraging residents to participate and contribute. Full details of events, registration information, and additional updates are available on the European Capital of Democracy Vienna website.
Associations, organisations, businesses, public institutions, and individuals are invited to submit their events, workshops, or initiatives to the programme calendar. The Office for Participation and Empowerment, overseeing the Democracy Year, will provide support.
Susanna Erker, head of the Department of Energy Planning, stated, “The Office for Participation and Empowerment serves as a hub for citizen involvement. By collaborating with government bodies, NGOs, and businesses, we aim to foster dialogue, dismantle barriers, and create opportunities for all residents to engage. Initiatives like the Vienna Climate Team and Participation Workshop highlight our commitment to an inclusive and vibrant democracy.”
New Democracy Funding Programme in 2025
In 2025, a € 300,000 funding programme will support the development of democracy projects. Residents can submit their ideas, with detailed funding criteria to be announced at the start of 2025.
Additionally, Vienna will develop a Democracy Strategy through a participatory process involving experts, civil society, and residents. This strategy will outline Vienna’s democratic future and will be presented to the City Council for discussion in mid-2025.
Fostering International Collaboration on Democracy
As the European Capital of Democracy, Vienna will host international events to encourage cross-European dialogue on democratic innovation. Key events include:
– Innovation in Politics Awards (September 2025): Honouring achievements in nine categories of democratic governance.
– ACT NOW Mayors Conference (May 2025): A platform for decision-makers from cities of all sizes.
– Truth, Lies & Democracy: Held in connection to the Game City event in autumn 2025, this initiative will create video game concepts addressing disinformation and fake news.
ECoD founder Helfried Carl noted, “This Democracy Year will serve as a beacon for democratic values, showcasing innovative events and participatory processes. It will demonstrate that democracy, through inclusive engagement, delivers the best outcomes for all.”
Other Highlights Include:
– Safe Democracy Convention (February 2025): Addressing data security and misinformation.
– International Forum Against Loneliness: Exploring strategies for young people’s health in a democracy.
– European Cities Conference – Zukunft: Focusing on institutionalised participation processes.
– AK Vienna’s Conference on Democracy and Political Participation (December 2025): A citywide discussion on democratic engagement.
The Democracy Year in Vienna is organised by the Office for Participation and Empowerment in collaboration with UIV Urban Innovation Vienna GmbH.
For further information, visit: