House of Commons Debate – Testing democracy, strengthening society

Social cohesion is undermined when people feel that things are not fair. But what actually constitutes fairness – and for whom? 

In the second »House of Commons« debate in Halle-Neustadt, we will be discussing precisely these questions: Do people receive what they deserve for their life’s work? Is perceived injustice more dangerous than actual inequality? And why do we often argue about culture rather than social justice?

Inspired by the British House of Commons, the format brings together different perspectives – openly, controversially and respectfully. A lively process of negotiation emerges between experts and the audience. Join the discussion! Because democracy thrives on debate and on the collective search for what is fair. 

In line with the annual themes, the foundations, in cooperation with the German Federal Cultural Foundation, offer a highly participatory and active format: the House of Commons debate. In times of polarisation, loss of trust and political fatigue, we create a space in which urban society can engage in dialogue again – respectfully, controversially and on an equal footing.

What makes it special is that the audience includes three to five experts from society, politics and academia, whose expertise is sought by the moderators to provide arguments for decisions, create understanding for other positions or critically examine one's own. The audience can contribute their views on various theses by choosing where to sit. All opinions are respectfully included in the discussion.

So join in – your opinion is expressly welcome!

Featuring the following experts:

Prof. Dr. Reinhold Sackmann, sociologist, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
Prof. Dr. Winfried Kluth, legal scholar, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
Hans Goldenbaum, social scientist and Islamic studies scholar, specializing in violence and radicalization prevention: Head of the Halle Youth Workshop and coach at the Saxony-Anhalt Police University of Applied Sciences
 

The House of Commons Debate is a collaborative event with the Federal Cultural Foundation and the Hallesche Jugendwerkstatt as part of the Wir Festival.