European Public Sphere goes Münster

by | 17. May 2018

Münster, Germany | As part of its NRW tour, the dome came to Münster on 11 May. Not only the continuing good weather, but also the Catholic Day encouraged a lively participation of different organizations’ invited representatives, but above all for keen-to-discuss passers-by.
Already during the joint dome construction, once again a vivid interest in the wooden and European construction could be noticed. Even before the first discussion, the clothesline surrounding the dome was loaded with thoughts and wishes for a common future – rarely an invitation was required. Many passers-by also took the time to read many of the colourful suggestions. Wishes also varied thematically, from dignified dying to increased animal protection.

In contrast to Bonn, an open discussion was scheduled. Even more than at the last stops, passers-by did not show any false shyness and alternately occupied chairs under the dome. Some main topics quickly emerged: European democracy, cultural identity or identities as a field of tension in Europe and a global vision of the future beyond Europe’s borders.

“Europe is expensive – but no Europe is much more expensive.”

Participant under the dome

Video from the Dome Talk in Münster on 11 May 2018
Against the background of increasing disinterest in or even aversion to European politics the question of the path of Europe’s democracy arose. Do we need more democratic instruments including direct democracy in Europe or must we first learn to make use of existing ones, such as the European Parliament elections? How can the importance of participation and the project in general be communicated?
Also from the view point of increasing right wing pressure and increasing reference to national identities ways of connecting them with a European identity and, thus, creating stronger feeling of togetherness were sought. How can people learn to identify with Europe? How can they be shown that even the assumption of a single national identity to which many refer is not realistic? What actually belongs to Europe?
At the same time, it was noted that a common identity in a globalised world must go beyond the European level. On the one hand, calls for an identification not only as Europeans but as citizens of the world and, therefore, a world state were voiced. On the other hand, the structural lack to create such a global community was highlighted which was said to already exist in the European Union.

The discussion was very exciting and dynamic. Many different points of view and ideas were raised. Once again, time flew by. All participants and some of the quiet listeners on the outside of the dome thanked us for our contribution, for the opportunity to talk about the paramount topic “Europe”. In Münster, too, important buidling blocks for Europe’s social structure came together thanks to the enthusiasm for debate on the part of those present. We are looking forward to our next stop in Düsseldorf!

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