Stiftung Mercator is committed to a united and peaceful Europe – especially at a time when the right of peoples to self-determination and fundamental human rights are being violated with great brutality. The expansion of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine is a challenge to us all and constitutes an attack on Europe’s security architecture – and on democracy itself.
As a result, the very foundations of our social coexistence are under threat. Democracy is being attacked from multiple directions. At the same time, ongoing economic stagnation is deepening social divisions; disinformation and a growing loss of trust in politics are fuelling increasing polarisation within society; extremist movements are gaining strength – and overarching all of this is the global threat posed by the climate crisis.
In view of the multiple crises of our time, we – as a European foundation – stand up for democratic values with particular determination. We promote understanding between people from different cultures, we are committed to strengthening social cohesion. In short: We stand up for democracy.
