To mark the anniversary of Germany’s Basic Law on 23 May, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has launched a new initiative called “Ehrentag”. Stiftung Mercator is one of the partners supporting the initiative, which aims to recognise and honour voluntary civic engagement – as democracy depends on people who contribute to the common good, take responsibility, and foster social cohesion.
At a time of rapid political and economic change, initiatives, associations, neighbourhood networks and civil society organisations help counteract centrifugal forces within society. Wherever people come together and engage constructively with differences, they experience a sense of agency and belonging.
“Democracy means much more than elections or institutions. It is rooted in civic engagement, taking responsibility, and a willingness to find solutions together. The Federal President’s “Ehrentag” highlights how strongly our democracy is sustained by many – especially by an organised and politically active civil society,” says Dr Lars Grotewold, Chief Executive Officer of Stiftung Mercator.
An important signal for society
Stiftung Mercator is committed to a cohesive, open, and socially just society, to the rule of law and equal opportunities, and to safeguarding our natural resources. Under the motto #WeStrengthenDemocracy, the organisation supports projects and partnerships that promote participation, strengthen social cohesion and foster constructive public debate, among other goals.
The nationwide initiative “Ehrentag” sends a strong signal, underscoring that democracy must be continually re-explained, re-lived, and re-anchored – not as an abstract concept, but as part of everyday life.
PRESS CONTACT
Lothar Kuhn | Director Communications
T +49 201-245 22-36 | lothar.kuhn@stiftung-mercator.de
ABOUT THE INITIATIVE “EHRENTAG“
On 23 May 2026, the initiative “Ehrentag” will take place for the first time. It is a nationwide initiative marking the anniversary of Germany’s Basic Law, initiated by Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. The idea is simple: to celebrate the constitution, people across the country are invited to contribute a few hours of their time to help make their communities a little better. The focus is on participation, shared experience, and a sense of community. The Federal President’s Office is organising the day of action together with the German Foundation for Engagement and Volunteering (DSEE), based in Neustrelitz.
ABOUT STIFTUNG MERCATOR
Stiftung Mercator is a private, independent and non-profit organisation that operates on the basis of scientific expertise and practical project experience. Since 1996, it has been committed to fostering a solidary and participatory society. To this end, it supports and develops initiatives that improve opportunities for participation and strengthen social cohesion. Stiftung Mercator advocates for a capable and democratic Europe, a rights-based digital transformation of the state and society, and a resilient, socially balanced climate policy. These objectives can only be realised within a liberal democracy one that Stiftung Mercator seeks to defend and strengthen – as expressed in its motto: #StandingUpForDemocracy. The foundation is active in Germany, across Europe, and globally. It maintains a strong connection to the Ruhr region, home to the founding family and the foundation’s headquarters.
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