On the occasion of the nationwide local elections in prefectures and municipalities in Japan in April 2023, we ask the following questions: How does a vital democracy manifest itself in rural regions? What opportunities for co-determination and political participation open up "on the periphery" in contrast to urban centers at all, especially for younger people - and what opportunities and obstacles are evident? How is the repertoire of political and social participation currently evolving, for example through digital forms of involvement or "lifestyle participation"? Or is an increasing "disenchantment with politics" and non-participation becoming more and more apparent? To what extent do civic education programs contribute to a vibrant culture of participation in rural areas in Japan and Germany?
These questions will be explored by experts and political activists from Japan and Germany in this event, who will engage in a dialogue to identify opportunities, trends and challenges as well as similarities and differences between the two countries.

Conference languages are German and Japanese with simultaneous interpretation; the panel discussion will take place virtually via Zoom.

For more details and the registration form, please refer to the German or Japanese website.