Where politics and young people meet at eye level
By Misch Pautsch Switch to German for original article
Gone are the days when trust in political institutions was normal. The question of how the next generation can be better integrated into democracy is becoming increasingly urgent. Luxembourg's Chamber of Deputies is focussing on direct contact with formats such as the "Train of Democracy" - a formula that seems to be working.
"Our politician has such big ears so that he can listen well, " explains one of the pupils from the nine primary school classes in the upper cycles who took over the chamber a few minutes ago. Around 120 pupils sit on the burgundy-coloured chairs of the Chamber of Deputies or on the carpeted floor in front of the lectern. Chamber President Claude Wiseler (CSV) has just opened a somewhat unusual annual session with the iconic chime of the bell: On 22 November, the "Train of Democracy" arrived at the Chamber.
On board: nine primary school classes from all over the country who have something to say to the MPs. And they are not coming empty-handed: They have labelled, painted and written ideas, suggestions or criticisms on self-made dolls representing the politicians and the children themselves in advance. Their design reflects their hopes for good politicians – a patchwork of colours, promises and five of the aforementioned big ears. The message is clear: they want to make their voices heard by the nine MPs they will soon be assigned to in groups.
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