Recognition for Foundational Law as Recipient of Brandenburg Liberty Award - "Comprehension of Fundamental Principles awarded Brandenburg Prize for Freedom"
In the heart of Brandenburg, a historic cathedral will play host to an esteemed annual event, the Brandenburg Freedom Prize ceremony. Established in 2015 to commemorate the 850th anniversary of the cathedral's foundation stone, the award is a testament to the region's commitment to freedom and democracy. The Evangelical Cathedral Chapter in Brandenburg an der Havel is responsible for bestowing this prestigious prize.
Meanwhile, another organisation, the "GrundGesetzVerstehen" association, is dedicated to promoting knowledge and understanding of Germany’s Basic Law or constitution, the Grundgesetz. Founded in the post-reunification era, the association has become a beacon of democracy promotion following historical periods of dictatorship and totalitarianism.
The "GrundGesetzVerstehen" association plays a significant role in fostering constitutional awareness among citizens, particularly young people. By demystifying the Basic Law, it strengthens democratic participation and respect for the rule of law. The association achieves this through various educational activities, including workshops, seminars, and the publication of accessible guides and brochures.
One of their key initiatives is organising nationwide free lessons to educate students about their fundamental rights. These lessons aim to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to recognise and defend their constitutional rights. The association also encourages active engagement among younger generations through school competitions and projects, online platforms, and public events.
In contrast, the Brandenburg Freedom Prize ceremony does not involve the "GrundGesetzVerstehen" association. The event, however, does attract high-profile patrons, with the current Federal President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, serving as the patron of the prize. This year's laudation will be delivered by former Federal President Joachim Gauck, and the award ceremony will take place on October 11 in the Cathedral of Brandenburg.
The Brandenburg Freedom Prize is endowed with 15,000 euros, but it's important to note that the award ceremony itself is not endowed with this amount. The prize is awarded every two years to individuals or organisations that have made significant contributions to the promotion of freedom, democracy, and human rights.
In conclusion, while the Brandenburg Freedom Prize and the "GrundGesetzVerstehen" association operate independently, they both share a common goal: to promote democracy, constitutional awareness, and respect for human rights in Germany. Their respective activities serve as valuable resources for citizens and a testament to the enduring commitment to democracy in the country.
The "GrundGesetzVerstehen" association supplements the community policy of democracy promotion by offering vocational training in education-and-self-development, specifically focusing on the understanding of Germany’s Basic Law or constitution, the Grundgesetz. This association, through various learning opportunities such as workshops, seminars, and accessible guides, aims to equip young people with the knowledge necessary for democratic participation and respect for the rule of law.
Although the Brandenburg Freedom Prize ceremony and the "GrundGesetzVerstehen" association operate independently, they both contribute significantly to the learning and upholding of democratic values within Germany, each in their unique way.
