As citizens lose confidence in democratic institutions and practices, democracies around the world are facing unprecedented internal and external challenges – such as the rise of populism and political polarization at home and the rise of autocracies abroad. These challenges have the potential to disrupt how we live. In Germany and the United States, decision-makers and opinion leaders consider how to build resilient societies by restoring trust and strengthening institutions and practices at the state and local level. They work to be more inclusive and to ensure that no one is left behind.
Join us on German Unity Day for welcoming remarks by Muhterem Aras, President of the Baden-Württemberg State Parliament, and German Consul General in New York David Gill, followed by thoughts from Winfried Kretschmann, the Minister-President of the State of Baden-Württemberg, about how to build resilient societies in challenging times.
In response to Minister President Kretschmann’s remarks, a panel will discuss what can be done at the state and local level. The panel will include Dr. Danyal Bayaz, Minister of Finance for the State of Baden-Württemberg; Sabrina Saunders Mosby, President and CEO of Vibrant Pittsburgh; and Lisa Schroeder, President and CEO of The Pittsburgh Foundation – and be moderated by Dr. Steven E. Sokol, President and CEO of the American Council on Germany.
The discussion will be followed by an informal lunch. This event is hosted by the State of Baden-Württemberg with support from the American Council on Germany and the German Consulate in New York.