What does it actually mean to be politically interested and to contribute personal ideas? And what role does your own vote play in local elections? "Youth Votes" provides answers and invites young people to actively engage with democracy and political participation on Monday, September 1, at the Eurogress Aachen.

"Get involved - because democracy needs you!"

The focus of the event is an open discussion round with experts from science, political education, administration and youth representatives. The focus will be on understanding democracy, forming political opinions and co-determination. However, not only experts, but also the audience will have their say: Open questions, polls and short sound bites invite participation.

Heinrich Brötz, Alderman for Education, Youth and Culture, emphasizes how important democracy education and participation are for Aachen: "Democracy is not a matter of course and is not simply there, but must be explained again and again, filled with life and 'fought for' in the best sense. Young people's input is particularly important to us here for the sustainable development of our city."

The program will be supplemented by a keynote speech in which everything to do with the election process, those entitled to vote and the offices and committees up for election will be explained in a comprehensible manner. The digital election tool "Lokal-O-Mat" will also be presented - a project by Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf with the support of the State Agency for Civic Education. A special version is now available for Aachen, which was developed specifically for this city. Users can compare the political positions of local parties and prepare for the local elections. The "Lokal-O-Mat" for Aachen is available at aachen.lokal-o-mat.de.

The accompanying education market also offers an overview of offers on various topics for young people in Aachen at numerous information stands. Visitors can talk directly to contact persons, pick up materials and find out about current projects and opportunities for participation.

High schools, school classes or student courses are invited to participate and inform about their options and can register as a group by sending an email to ines.alberding@mail.aachen.de. Individuals can register voluntarily via www.aachen.de/jugendwaehlt.

Program at a glance

• 09.30 a.m. - Arriving on the education market
• 10.30 a.m. - Welcome & introduction to the stage program
• 10.50 a.m. - Lecture "The local election explained in compact form"
• 11.05 a.m. - Presentation of the digital voting aid tool "Lokal-O-Mat"
• 11.15 a.m. - Round table discussion with experts
• 12.30 p.m. - Conclusion at the education market (until 1.30 p.m.)

The event and drinks are free of charge.

Further information at: www.aachen.de/jugendwaehlt