Civic education and social cohesion

For many people, an open society with numerous opportunities is not only an asset but also a challenge, especially in view of globalization, which seems to make everything more complex, confusing and unpredictable. Democracy depends on citizens’ ability and willingness to engage in political thinking and action. Civic education is therefore a Federal Government priority.
Many people feel uneasy about such changes. They think they have no control over their lives and therefore often develop

• feelings of uncertainty, alienation, and of being overwhelmed,
• fears and disorientation,
• attitudes based on stereotypes and prejudice.

In this situation, policy-makers should provide orientation and answers. If the gap between expectations and actual results is too great, however, people might become apathetic towards politics or even reject democracy entirely, in some cases resulting in extremist activity. Respect, tolerance, and ensuring personal and educational prospects for all can help prevent criminal careers, susceptibility to extremist propaganda and rejection of the open society.

Policy-makers must therefore aim to create the basis for peaceful and social co-existence. In this respect, it is important to develop measures for people of every age to help them cope with new challenges in their daily lives.