How can real enthusiasm for local politics be awakened? In the current issue of the VORAN magazine of the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftungwhich presents examples of good transformation practice in federal states and municipalities, author Hanna Fath takes stock of five Municipal development councilsone year after the conclusion of the processes. The review shows that the advisory boards have not only produced valuable recommendations for local policy, but have also noticeably strengthened the interest and commitment of those involved in local issues. In Rottenburg and in the Kalletal the advisory board members have made a concrete contribution to the development of their urban society - for some, their commitment has even led to a move into active local politics.
An interview was also conducted with Prof Dr Gesine Schwan, initiator of the approach and co-founder of the Berlin Governance Platform. She talks about how important it is for people to be able to identify with democracy and the role that participation formats such as the Municipal Development Councils can play in this.