Future debate for children: Steglitz-Zehlendorf relies on culture!

Future debate for children: Steglitz-Zehlendorf relies on culture!

The week of future euphoria has begun in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf city library and the Schwartzsche Villa. This event, which is dedicated to the cultural participation of children and young people, set the first tone with readings by Anetta Kahane and Dr. Ute Scheub. The events not only offer entertainment, but also an important forum for discussing future prospects for the young generation.

This Thursday, October 9th, 2025, there are two exciting discussion formats on the program of the Ingeborg Drewitz Library. The discussion “Youth Future Culture” begins at 6 p.m., in which Antonia Weisz (Domain Dahlem), Anne-Kathrin Ostrop (Archdiocese of Berlin) and Lilly Beaucamp (Steglitz-Zehlendorf District Student Committee) will share their views on culture and future prospects for children and young people. At 7:30 p.m. there will be a conversation with Prof. Dr. Stefan Selke, sociologist and aerospace engineer, on the topic “Future euphoria made in Steglitz Zehlendorf?”

Focus on participation of children and young people

A central concern of these events is to give children and young people an active voice. Experts emphasize how important it is to incorporate the perspectives and interests of young people in artistic and cultural projects. According to the quality standards for child and youth participation of the Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ), four dimensions of participation should be taken into account: the creative, educational, social aspect and political participation.

However, designing the framework conditions for successful participation can be challenging. Many actors are faced with the tension that exists between the independent cultural practices of young people and the interests of the sponsors as well as the existing funding conditions. The highlights of the discourses during the Week of Future Euphoria aim to address these challenges.

National youth participation initiatives

In the context of current events, the National Action Plan for Child and Youth Participation (NAP), which runs until the end of 2025, should not go unmentioned. This plan, launched by the Federal Youth Ministry, aims to encourage direct and visible participation of young people. Unique formats such as dialogue forums and youth audits promote interaction between young people and political decision-makers.

The central recommendation of this plan is the equal treatment of all young people in participation processes. Successful communication and information regarding the participation opportunities offered is crucial. The NAP creates a network of support offers, including barrier-free participation formats and the anchoring of youth rights in these processes.

The diverse events and discussions offered during the Week of Future Euphoria in Steglitz-Zehlendorf demonstrate the commitment to offering young people a platform to actively contribute their concerns and perspectives. Those interested have the opportunity to get free tickets for the various events www.pretix.de/kultur-berlin-sz to acquire. The full program is up www.berlin.de/kultur-steglitz-zehlendorf available.

If you have any questions, the program coordinators Maximilian Hagemeyer and Ulrike Fürstenau are available in the press and public relations department.