“Tübingen appears to be a city with a strong democratic foundation, rich in resources, but also self-referential and, at times, self-satisfied.” The integration of local democracy into civil society, academia and the social fabric is exceptionally strong. This is also reflected in one of the lowest AfD election results in the state, the AfD’s decision not to stand in the local council elections, and the Greens’ dominance with over 50 per cent of second votes in elections.
University study commissioned by TAKT
These are the key findings of a study entitled ‘How democratic is Tübingen?’, which the Institute for Research into Right-Wing Extremism (IRex) at the University of Tübingen has recently published on behalf of TAKT. “TAKT – Tübingen Active Against Discrimination” has been funded since 2018 as part of the federal programme “Demokratie leben!” by the Federal Ministry of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth. The initiative is led by the Office for Equality and Integration of the University City of Tübingen.
‘Island of the Blessed’, but socially selective
‘The risks lie less in acute isolated incidents than in structural ambivalences: in the self-assurance of the “Island of the Blessed”, which renders problems invisible’, the authors of the study go on to explain regarding the flip side of these findings. The “highly active but academically oriented civil society” is cited as an example, described as being socially selective and self-referential, that is, focused on itself. Further risks mentioned include a tight housing market and pressure on local authorities to make savings, which primarily affects voluntary services relevant to democracy. Added to this is the “personalised polarisation caused by the Lord Mayor”.
Involvement of previously excluded communities
On a positive note, the report highlights approaches towards more “outreach-based, real-life and less didactic formats; the consistent involvement of previously excluded communities and the surrounding areas; a fair culture of debate and dialogue; a significant enhancement of political education; and a secure, long-term framework for protection and networking”. The target groups identified include, in particular, people affected by poverty and loneliness, as well as migrant groups. This would enable the city’s considerable democratic capital to be disseminated more widely. According to the researchers, previously neglected collaborations – particularly with neighbourhood and district community centres, as well as traditional clubs, associations, churches and Muslim communities – should be strengthened.
Subtle group-based hostility
Despite all the positive initiatives aimed at democratisation, the authors also identify a form of “group-based hostility” that rarely manifests itself openly or in an organised manner, but is instead subtle and part of everyday life. At the heart of this are racism, anti-Muslim racism and a marked rise in anti-Semitism – primarily relating to Israel – as well as hostility towards queer and trans people, sexism, and the devaluation and exclusion of people with disabilities and those from lower social backgrounds.
Methodologically, the study is based on the analysis of available statistical data and documentation, as well as on 37 qualitative interviews with individuals from the worlds of politics, society, public administration and civil society.
Further information:
For a summary of the study: PFD-BERICHT-TÜ-kompakt-1.pdf
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