Vienna’s Democracy Strategy More participation. More cohesion. More transparency.

Legal notice Owner and publisher Magistrat der Stadt Wien, Rathaus, 1010 Wien(Vienna Municipal Administration) Commissioned by Jürgen Czernohorszky · Executive City Councillor for Climate, Environment, Democracy, and Human Resources Overall strategic coordination and editing Wencke Hertzsch, Laura Schoch, Georg Feiner, Teresa Feith, and Katharina Toth · Office for Participation and Empowerment(City of Vienna – Energy Planning) Monika Stumpf-Fekete and Marlene Fuchs · Chief Executive Office for Construction and Technology, Competence Centre for Higher-Level Urban Planning, Smart City Strategy, Participation, Gender Planning Anna Henkes, Sanda Hubana, Eva-Maria Kehrer, Teresa Klicpera, Martina Öttl, Joachim Pranzl, Paula Rossi, and Marcel Simoner · UIV Urban Innovation Vienna GmbH Political governance Democracy City Councillor, representatives of the city government, representatives of all Administrative Groups, Deputy Executive Officer, and nominated democracy contact persons Participatory development The Democracy Strategy was developed between May 2024 and June 2025 with the participation of employees of the Vienna Municipal Administration, Executive Councillors’ Offices, experts from academia and civil society, and Viennese residents in the course of outreach workshops and online participation. Design, layout, illustrations, and editing Lumsden& Friends Photos Cover photo and pages 8, 37© City of Vienna/Martin Votava · Page 4© City of Vienna/Bubu Dujmic · Page 5© City of Vienna/Michael Königshofer · Page 6© City of Vienna/Ingo Petramer · Pages 7, 11, 40, 41, 52, 53, 57(below)© City of Vienna/Luzia Puiu · Page 9© UIV · Pages 12, 13, 15, 21, 24, 25, 56, 66© UIV/Jakub Han · Pages 14, 28© City of Vienna/Christian Fürthner · Page 18© Volkshilfe Wien/John Kücukcay · Pages 22, 23, 53(top), 65© City of Vienna/Markus Wache · Pages 26, 48© City of Vienna/Zsolt Marton · Pages 19, 27, 32, 36, 44, 45, 49, 58, 61, 62© UIV/Paula Rossi Print Print Alliance HAV Produktions GmbH. Printed on ecological paper, produced with CO 2 compensation according to the criteria of“ÖkoKauf Wien”. Accessibility This PDF has been designed to be accessible and meets the requirements of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines(WCAG). Further information is available on the website: wien.gv.at/demokratie-strategie Contact: mitwirkung@post.wien.gv.at Vienna’s Democracy Strategy was adopted by the Vienna City Council on 22 October 2025. Legal The graphics, images, etc., contained are protected by copyright. Reproduction only with reference to the source. © November 2025, Magistrat der Stadt Wien(Vienna Municipal Administration) 2

Contents 1 Why a Democracy Strategy? 8 1.1 10 1.2 12 2 The path of Viennese 14 2.1 The basic principles of Viennese 16 2.2 Localisation of Vienna’s Democracy 18 2.3 Viennese democracy in a broader 20 2.4 The vision of Viennese 26 3 The seven fields of 28 3.1 Addressing and involving all 31 3.2 Strengthening community life and 35 3.3 Promoting a culture of discussion and 39 3.4 Providing more information and removing 43 3.5 Democracy education and opinion 47 3.6 Institutionalising 51 3.7 Opening up politics and 55 4 From strategy to 58 5 Participatory development process and 62 5.1 Participatory development 63 5.2 67 5.3 Further 68 3

Michael Ludwig Mayor of the City of Vienna Democracy has a history in Vienna – and a future Not only is Vienna a place steeped in history, but it is also a city that embodies the principles of democracy. In 1848, Vienna became the stage for the first major democratic uprising in the Habsburg Empire. It was in Vienna that the First Republic came into being in 1918. And it was in the Red Salon of Vienna City Hall that Karl Renner declared the reestablishment of the Republic of Austria in 1945. These places and events are more than just memories – they are a commitment. Our history clearly shows that democracy in Vienna has always had to be fought for, defended, and developed. Even today, we still face challenges that affect the very foundation of our democratic society: social division, a two-thirds democracy with hundreds of thousands of Viennese residents not eligible to vote, dwindling trust in institutions, and the threat of disinformation and extremism. Vienna’s first Democracy Strategy is our first step towards a systematic response to these developments. It builds on our democratic tradition – and looks to the future. It strengthens participation and codetermination, promotes social cohesion, and creates new avenues for political participation. With innovative measures and the continuation of successful projects, we are bringing democracy to where it belongs: at the heart of urban society. Democracy means responsibility – for today and for future generations. I invite all Viennese residents to join us on this journey. Because only together can we strengthen democracy – and make Vienna one of the most democratic cities in Europe. Because we know that a strong democracy is the foundation for a good life for all. Michael Ludwig Mayor of the City of Vienna 5

More participation and democracy in Vienna Jürgen Czernohorszky Executive City Councillor for Democracy Democracy thrives when we shape it together – every day, everywhere, with everyone. In a city like Vienna, where people from diverse backgrounds, walks of life, and perspectives come together, this joint effort is particularly valuable – and particularly challenging. Democracy is under pressure in many parts of the world – and even in our city, this challenge is visible. When a third of Vienna’s population is excluded from voting, when many people feel unheard or unable to participate, it becomes our duty to act. Participation is the key to overcoming disadvantage. More democracy means creating spaces for participation. It means developing processes that involve rather than dictate and embracing an attitude that sees diversity not as a problem but as a strength. The Vienna Democracy Symposium 2023 and Vienna’s designation as European Capital of Democracy 2024/25 served as key catalysts in developing this strategy. They sharpened the focus on the city’s potential for democratic participation and provided the impetus to further refine existing approaches while exploring new ones. The strategy emerged from an open, cooperative process – driven by the conviction that Vienna is not only a place of democracy, but also an active shaper of a vibrant and inclusive democratic culture. With Vienna’s Democracy Strategy, we are providing ourselves with a compass for this journey – a commitment to the principle that every voice counts. Participation is a right, not a privilege. And democracy is not confined to elections or the Vienna City Hall; it also takes shape in our everyday life: in conversations in the park, in our schools, homes, and workplaces. Vienna has a long tradition of democracy. Now it is time to continue writing this story – with openness, courage, and a clear goal: building a city where everyone has a say and can take part in shaping its future. I warmly invite you to join us on this journey. 6

The team at the Office for Participation and Empowerment City of Vienna – Energy Planning Shaping democracy together Vienna’s first Democracy Strategy is the outcome of an intensive learning process supported by many people across the city. From the very beginning, it was clear that democracy cannot be imposed from above. It must grow through dialogue, negotiation, and collective development. That was the guiding principle of this project, and it will remain so as the strategy is put into practice. As the Office for Participation and Empowerment, we coordinated and supported this process in cooperation with the City Planning Department and Urban Innovation Vienna. Working closely with colleagues from the administration, experts, committed Viennese residents, and representatives of civil society, we developed a strategic framework that not only provides guidance but also leaves room for new ideas. A framework that takes the diversity of our city seriously and aims to make participation a natural part of administrative practice. Throughout this process, it was especially important to us to show that democracy is not an abstract principle, but part of everyday life. It begins where people listen to one another. Where information is clear and accessible, and where participation does not depend on prior knowledge, but inspires people to get involved. The strategy identifies key challenges and proposes ways in which we can address them together: through clear quality standards, inclusive outreach formats, a willingness to experiment, and an openness to perspectives that have rarely been heard before. As the Office for Participation and Empowerment, we will continue to support the implementation of this strategy and see ourselves as partners to the many initiatives and institutions that strengthen Vienna’s vibrant and inclusive democracy. Our shared goal is to build a common understanding of what it takes to make democracy sustainable for the future. We would like to thank everyone who contributed with their experience, knowledge, critical input, time, and trust. This strategy would not have been possible without such collaboration. Now the next step begins: putting it into practice. We look forward to continuing this journey together. 7

1. Why a Democracy Strategy?

Partners’ Meeting, 17 January 2025 A good life for everyone in Vienna – through active engagement and political and social participation. We shape democracy in Vienna as something vibrant, learning, and adaptable. In times of multiple crises and profound social change, we recognise above all the need and the opportunity to strengthen our democracy. We are convinced that democracy can only grow when we work together. When decision-making power is shared, and different perspectives come together, better solutions emerge – fostering justice, cohesion, and quality of life in Vienna. Our approach is guided by principles that see democracy as an everyday practice, emphasise respectful cooperation on equal footing despite differing views, and place the well-being of the community at the centre. We promote a vibrant culture of democracy and participation by expanding opportunities for cocreating and shared decision-making. This helps us reach those who have been excluded or feel unable – or unwilling – to get involved. We open access, empower people, strengthen self-determination, and build skills. We create spaces for experimentation and learning, share knowledge, and foster networks and collaboration. In the years ahead, this Democracy Strategy will serve as our framework for putting these principles into practice. 9

1.1 Introduction DEMOCRACY CANNOT BE TAKEN FOR GRANTED. Democracy must be nurtured, defended, and continually developed. Today, this is not only a lesson from history, but a serious challenge in the present. The many crises of our time threaten democratic coexistence in our societies worldwide: the climate crisis and wars in Europe and beyond, growing inequalities, and increasing polarization and division. Trust in established political institutions is declining in many countries, while more and more people are living without full political rights, including the right to vote. DEMOCRACY IS CONSTANTLY CHANGING. VIENNA IS A VIBRANT, DEMOCRATIC CITY. Democracy is under pressure. Just as the world is constantly changing, democracy must also respond to new conditions to find viable solutions for the future. Previous approaches are no longer sufficient on their own, which is why existing frameworks and opportunities for participation need to be further developed and adapted. There is a need for innovative ideas that complement proven methods from the past, enabling democracy to remain resilient and sustainable in the long term. As one of the world’s most liveable cities, Vienna has proven to be particularly stable and resilient in times of crises in recent years. The City of Vienna embraces the challenges of our time as opportunities to further strengthen its democratic culture. It is dedicated to ensuring that all residents, regardless of citizenship, education, income, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability, have meaningful opportunities to shape their living environment and participate in democratic processes. By fostering innovative forms of participation, the City of Vienna aims to keep its democracy vibrant and inclusive well into the future. 10

1.2 Challenges Launch event for Vienna’s Democracy Strategy, 16 May 2024 A TWO-THIRDS DEMOCRACY Nowhere else in Austria do so many people live without Austrian citizenship and thus without the right to vote as in Vienna: more than one in three residents overall, and as many as four in ten among those aged 16 to 25. The political representation of their interests is inadequate. This significant exclusion affects the political representation of many, particularly groups that are traditionally underrepresented or disadvantaged in participatory processes. These include people on low incomes, women with caregiving responsibilities, children and young people, people with disabilities, and individuals with a migration background. Despite facing barriers to participation, these groups have a strong desire to have their voices heard and contribute to shaping the city’s democratic life. UNEQUAL OPPORTUNITIES Political inequality is further exacerbated by existing employment relationships: 60% of manual workers, 26% of employees, and 6% of public servants lack voting rights. Beyond legal restrictions, many Viennese also face unequal access to essential resources such as money, time, education, and health, all of which are crucial for meaningful political participation. The disparity is particularly pronounced among those in the lowest income brackets, with limited educational qualifications, or without Austrian citizenship. Despite various attempts to encourage participation beyond elections, these groups tend to be less satisfied with the political system and engage less in participatory processes, as shown by the 2024 study“Mehr Zusammenbringen” (Ehs& Zandonella, 2024). Developing tailored approaches is therefore essential to improve political representation and foster greater democratic inclusion in Vienna. SOCIAL DIVISION For the democratic future of Vienna and to ensure long-term peaceful coexistence, engaging in dialogue with the Viennese people and with as broad a public as possible is essential to address and negotiate key issues together. Controversial topics, such as how to deal with crises and the declining trust in politics, generate conflicting opinions. It is crucial to enable and shape social participation in relevant issues concerning the future of the city to counteract social division. CLIMATE CRISIS Vienna will be climate neutral by 2040. Achieving this ambitious goal requires not only technological innovation but also the active participation of its residents. The objective is to collaboratively develop solutions that contribute to climate protection. Special attention and support are given to those most affected by the climate crisis – such as older adults, young people concerned about the future, immigrants without political participation rights, people affected by poverty and exclusion, and women who are structurally impacted differently by climate change. 12

Launch event for Vienna’s Democracy Strategy, 16 May 2024 DIGITALISATION The polarisation of society through fake news, radicalisation on social media, the manipulation of opinion through the misuse of artificial intelligence, and differences in knowledge and skills(the“digital divide”) require a strong democratic society. The City of Vienna is committed to people-centred digitalisation, guided by the principles of digital humanism. The commitment includes expanding and providing greater opportunities for digital participation. Various tools, artificial intelligence, and open data – freely accessible information – are intended to help facilitate digital dialogue that promotes democratic opinion-forming and exchange. PARTICIPATORY CULTURE To effectively meet these democratic challenges, new forms of cooperation among various organizations and people in Vienna are essential. This includes, in particular, politics, administration, science, culture, and civil society as important areas of society in which participation can have the most lasting impact. Beyond its local efforts, the City of Vienna plays a significant role on national and European stages by initiating discussions on democracy and participation and fostering deeper cooperation with(new) networks. This comprehensive approach strengthens democratic engagement and broadens its reach both internally and across borders. 13

The path of Viennese democracy

In Vienna, representatives from politics, administration, science, culture, and civil society are addressing current challenges and working together to develop solutions. Their goal is to firmly embed democratic values in a changing urban society through new approaches to participation. Being awarded European Capital of Democracy 2024/25 represents a significant milestone on this path. Vienna aims to remain a leading hub for democracy in Europe beyond the Year of Democracy. 15

2.1 The basic principles of Viennese democracy The six basic principles of Viennese democracy are based on the concept of a democracy that offers all Viennese residents the opportunity to actively participate in shaping urban life. They represent the values and goals of an open, inclusive, and future-oriented society, forming the foundation for how city policy and administration operate. The basic principles create a common understanding of how the city should develop. Democracy as an everyday practice Democracy is shaped by all of us Cooperation based on recognition, respect, and appreciation Transforming structures Quality of life as a fundamental right Responsibility for future generations and the common good Figure 1: Fundamental principles of democracy. Source: UIV 16

VIENNESE DEMOCRACY IS BASED ON THE FOLLOWING FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES: DEMOCRACY AS AN EVERYDAY PRACTICE Democracy goes beyond elections and constitutional structures. It is reflected in how we live and work together every day. It manifests itself in our daily interactions, in our homes, in public spaces, at school, or within families, as well as in the ongoing negotiation of everyday coexistence. DEMOCRACY IS SHAPED BY ALL OF US Political decision-makers, administrative staff, representatives of associations, and all people living in Vienna actively shape democracy. Democracy is practised every day through the active collaboration of Vienna’s residents in shaping their city and promoting the common good. TRANSFORMING STRUCTURES To enable broader participation in the long term, structural reforms in urban policy and administration are necessary. This involves strengthening the administration, enhancing collaboration with partners across the city, and encouraging the active involvement of as many Viennese residents as possible. QUALITY OF LIFE AS A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHT Democracy forms the foundation for a good life for everyone in the city. Municipal policy and administration view Vienna’s high quality of life as a fundamental right for all residents – regardless of citizenship, education, social background, gender, age, or disability. This includes equal access to education, employment, cultural offerings, housing, and healthcare. COOPERATION BASED ON RECOGNITION, RESPECT, AND APPRECIATION Democratic urban policy and administration treat all people equally – in every regard. Respect, appreciation, and empathy foster a constructive culture of dialogue in which different opinions are welcomed, and residents are recognised as experts regarding their neighbourhood. This promotes an equal, dialogue-driven exchange and helps resolve conflicts more effectively. RESPONSIBILITY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS AND THE COMMON GOOD All decisions made by municipal policymakers and administrators affect the general well-being and future of everyone living in Vienna. To ensure a consistently high quality of life, the social, ecological, and economic needs of all residents must be carefully considered. 17

2.2 Localisation of Vienna’s Democracy Strategy Vienna’s Democracy Strategy is a central component of the city’s strategic orientation to remain one of the most liveable cities. The strategy aligns seamlessly with the city’s key framework and future strategies, as it builds on their approaches and guiding principles to promote democratic participation. IMPORTANT STRATEGIES INCLUDE: Smart Climate City Strategy The Smart Climate City Strategy brings together climate protection and sustainability while placing a strong emphasis on participation, engagement, and inclusion. Its central aim is to shape a liveable and sustainable future collaboratively in a city that is constantly evolving. In line with this approach, residents are actively involved in key decisions, supported by easily accessible participation opportunities. This creates local spaces for experimentation, where new ideas for a sustainable urban future can be developed and tested. Declaration“Vienna – City of Human Rights” Human rights are the foundation of a democratic and inclusive society. Since 2014, the City of Vienna has contributed significantly to embedding this declaration across as many levels of urban life as possible. To further strengthen this commitment, initiatives that apply a human rights-based approach at the local level receive particular support. Among them are the Vienna Human Rights Districts, where dialogue workshops are organised to promote constructive coexistence and cooperation within the city. The Vienna Strategy for Children and Young People The Vienna Children and Youth Strategy aims to make Vienna the most child- and youth-friendly city in the world. It promotes self-determination, participation, and equal opportunities for young people. At its core, the strategy underscores the importance of involving children and young people in decision-making at an early stage and taking their perspectives seriously. Inclusive Vienna 2030 The Inclusive Vienna 2030 programme aims to strengthen inclusion and ensure the equal participation of people with disabilities in all areas of society. Its foundation is the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Through a participatory process, measures were developed together with various stakeholders, including people with disabilities, to firmly embed comprehensive accessibility throughout the City of Vienna. Vienna Cultural Strategy 2030 The central aim of Vienna’s Cultural Strategy 2030 is to foster an inclusive, equitable, and vibrant cultural landscape. Developed through a broad participatory 18

process, the strategy addresses key topics such as participation, diversity, fair pay, crisis resilience, the ability to navigate challenging situations, and climate-conscious cultural practice. It underscores the importance of engaging in dialogue on equal terms to shape Vienna’s cultural future collaboratively. The city’s fundamental strategies demonstrate that the participation of the city’s residents is a core principle of democratic development in Vienna. The City sees collaboration with its population as an opportunity to make politics and administration more transparent and citizenfriendly, while enabling better long-term solutions for the future. Other key strategies, such as the Participatory Urban Development Master Plan and the Economic and Innovation Strategy 2030, were likewise developed in close cooperation with a wide range of stakeholders and enable structured opportunities for participation. In the field of digitalisation , the“Digital Humanism” mission statement and the Digital Agenda 2030 highlight the potential and importance of digital participation tools and Open Government Data in strengthening transparency and enhancing effective participation processes. The Democracy Strategy builds on these diverse and successful participation approaches of recent years – and develops them further. Workshop for Participation in cooperation with Caritas Community Cooking, 3 September 2024 19

2.3 Viennese democracy in a broader context Vienna’s democracy aligns with international and national democratic standards. As part of the European Union(EU) and Austria’s federal structure, EU law and the Austrian Federal Constitution apply. Vienna plays an active role in shaping policy in the EU and Austria. IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL REFERENCES The key universal legal provisions and overarching agendas that have an impact in Vienna in the field of democracy and participation include: Human rights are fundamental rights to which every person is entitled simply by virtue of being human, regardless of their origin, gender, nationality, language, religion, or other status. The human rights declared by the UN General Assembly in 1948 include freedom of expression, assembly, and association. The European Convention on Human Rights, which has been in force since 1950, protects these rights in Europe. Since 1989, the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child has specifically safeguarded the rights of children: for example, the right to support for their development, recognition of their interests and ideas, age-appropriate participation and involvement in all socio-political issues, respect, and protection from all forms of violence and abuse. Austria ratified the Convention in 1992, making it binding under international law. Individual children’s rights have also been enshrined in the Federal Constitutional Law on the Rights of the Child since 2011. UN Convention on Women’s Rights is short for the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) of 1979. Austria ratified it in 1982. It is the most important international human rights instrument for women: it aims to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women in all areas of life, including political and public life. The UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development , with its global goals – known as the “Sustainable Development Goals” (SDGs) – serves as another point of reference. The development goal of“peace, justice, and strong institutions” is particularly important for democracy, as it concerns the promotion of peaceful and inclusive democratic societies. With Vienna’s Democracy Strategy, the City of Vienna is continuing its long-standing commitment to human rights, democracy, and the fight against all forms of discrimination. In doing so, it is pursuing the goal of implementing the SDGs at the local level. The strategy combats discrimination, the unequal treatment of people based on characteristics such as ethnicity, religion, gender, or social background. THE EUROPEAN UNION ON THE MOVE The rule of law, fundamental rights, and the separation of powers form the foundation of the European Union(EU), a community of democratic nation-states. To safeguard these democratic principles amid growing pressures from illiberal forces, populism, nationalism, and disinformation, the EU follows a comprehensive and coordinated approach. Through directives, strategies, and targeted measures, the EU strengthens democratic values such as the rule of law, global openness, and diversity across its member states. Where necessary, it also ensures that these values are protected and put into practice. The most significant instruments include:  infringement proceedings: The European Commission initiates legal action against a Member State if it fails to correctly implement or violates EU law. Voting rights for EU citizens: Local voting rights for EU citizens are an essential element of political participation within the EU. Residents may participate in municipal and district council elections in their Member State of residence, even if they do not hold that country’s citizenship. In Vienna, this includes the right to vote in district council elections. 20

Democracy Symposium, 5 June 2023 European Citizens’ Initiative: This instrument enables EU citizens to actively help shape EU policy by calling on the European Commission to propose legislation on specific issues. Action Plan for Democracy in Europe: In place since 2020, the Action Plan sets out measures to counter disinformation, promote media freedom, and support free elections across the EU. Citizen engagement is regarded as a key factor in strengthening democratic systems. Democracy Defence Package: Introduced in 2023, this package complements the Action Plan with the intention to reinforce democratic institutions, values, and processes within the EU. Its concrete measures and guidelines help combat political corruption, safeguard the integrity of elections, and guarantee the independence of the media. Solidarity Corps, and EU Youth Dialogue). These are all important activities that had a direct influence on the development of Vienna’s Democracy Strategy. THE CURRENT SITUATION IN AUSTRIA Other EU measures also contribute to improved knowledge about current democratic challenges (e.g., Eurobarometer“The State of Democracy”), successful participatory approaches in Europe(e.g., Competence Centre for Participatory and Deliberative Democracy), and political education and co-determination(e.g., EU programmes Erasmus+, European The re-established Second Republic of Austria became a parliamentary democracy again in 1945. This means that all Austrian citizens elect their political representatives. As a representative democracy, Austria follows the principle of proportional representation: political parties receive seats in parliament in proportion to their share of the vote. 22

Regular elections in Austria include:  election of the Federal President every six years  Council elections every five years  for provincial parliaments and municipal councils, including the Vienna Provincial Parliament and Municipal Council, every five years  to the European Parliament every five years The right to vote is generally tied to Austrian citizenship. In 2007, the voting age was lowered to 16, making Austria a role model for many other countries. Citizens of other EU Member States may participate in European Parliament elections and local council elections (in Vienna, District Council Elections), though this right does not extend to provincial or federal elections. The province of Vienna had already attempted to introduce voting rights for third-country nationals at the district level in 2003. As the regulation was incompatible with federal constitutional law, it was overturned by the Constitutional Court in 2004. A change in voting rights for EU citizens or thirdcountry nationals at the provincial and municipal level is therefore only possible if a constitutional amendment is made at the federal level in advance. With regard to its Democracy Strategy, the City of Vienna will advocate for easier access to Austrian citizenship and thus to voting rights in the future. Democracy Symposium, 5 June 2023 23

Democracy Symposium , 5 Jun e 2023 In addition, there are other opportunities for participation in Austria: Referendum : all eligible voters are asked to decide on a legislative decision or a partial or complete amendment to the Federal Constitution. The result is binding. Popular Consultation : Citizens are invited to give their opinion on a specific legislative proposal. Although the result is not binding, it serves as an important basis for political decision-making. Petition for a Referendum: Citizens may collect signatures to initiate a legislative process themselves. If more than 100,000 people sign, the National Council must consider and examine the proposal. Parliamentary citizens’ initiative: This allows specific concerns to be submitted to the National Council’s Committee for Petitions and Citizens’ Initiatives. It requires at least 500 signatures from eligible voters. Public consultation procedure: Citizens and organisations may submit comments during the parliamentary review phase. 24

Launch event for Vienna’s Democracy Strategy, 16 May 2024 Before a draft is submitted to the National Council, they may also comment on ministerial drafts, i.e., legislative proposals put forward by federal ministers. In 2008, the federal level adopted standards designed to strengthen public participation. These standards improve transparency, acceptance, and the overall quality of decision-making within the federal administration. These standards also serve as a model for the development of Vienna’s Democracy Strategy, which will significantly expand opportunities for participation and co-determination in the city. In line with the federal framework, the Vienna City Constitution provides instruments of direct democracy, such as popular consultations, plebiscites (referendums), and petitions for referendums, enabling residents to participate directly in decisionmaking at both the provincial and municipal levels. In addition, further legally established participation rights, including the right to petition, citizens’ assemblies, and district council consultation hours, promote direct dialogue between residents and the administration. 25

2.4 The vision of Viennese democracy The vision of Viennese democracy is a good life for everyone in Vienna, regardless of their origin, status, or social background. Therefore, policymakers and the city administration promote the political and social participation of the people who live and work in Vienna. Viennese democracy shall be vibrant , learning , and adaptable . Its vibrant quality is reflected in residents’ active involvement. Vibrant means that democracy does not only exist as an abstract system of laws and institutions, but as a practice that unfolds in people’s everyday lives. The following fields of action(see Chapter 3) contribute to this quality: •  ddressing and involving all groups •  community life and cooperation •  romoting a culture of discussion and debate Its learning quality is ensured through access to information, the promotion of education, and the removal of barriers. Learning means that democracy is an ongoing process in which ideas are exchanged, reflected upon, and critically examined. The following fields of action contribute to this quality: •  roviding more information and removing barriers •  education and opinion formation The adaptable quality represents the willingness of politicians and administrators to embrace change. This involves transforming the structures and processes of a democracy by opening them up and collaborating with the people of Vienna. The following fields of action contribute to this quality: •  participation •  pening up politics and administration The active participation of all Viennese residents in shaping life in the city is not only a central goal but also the path that all partners are pursuing together. Only through commitment and shared responsibility can this vision be realised and the city made fit for the future. 26

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The seven fields of action

Seven fields of action have been defined to achieve the vision of Viennese democracy. They build on the fundamental principles of Viennese democracy and address key areas that city policy and administration aim to implement together with the entire urban community. 1. ADDRESSING AND INVOLVING ALL GROUPS 2. COMMUNITY LIFE AND COOPERATION 3. A CULTURE OF DISCUSSION AND DEBATE 4. MORE INFORMATION AND REMOVING BARRIERS 5. EDUCATION AND OPINION FORMATION 6. INSTITUTIONALISING PARTICIPATION 7. OPENING UP POLITICS AND ADMINISTRATION 29

3.1 Addressing and involving all groups Democracy thrives on the participation of Vienna’s residents, which is why even more people should be encouraged to get involved. In the future, participation formats will be designed with a clear focus on specific target groups. Participation formats will be low-threshold and inclusive, ranging from information, counselling, and consultation to co-creation, the joint development of ideas or projects. This approach ensures that everyone can easily participate and contribute their everyday experiences. This also addresses those people whose voices are otherwise less heard, including girls and women, migrants, people of all genders, and individuals with low formal education or disabilities, children and young people, and those affected by poverty. By doing so, these groups are supported in becoming politically and socially involved and in helping shape decisions made by city policymakers and administrators. WHAT IT IS ABOUT • Involving all target groups •  eaching out to people in everyday settings, such as parks, workplaces, homes, or during leisure activities •  trengthening the confidence of Viennese residents who contribute to the positive development of the city with their interests, opinions, and suggestions •  xpanding cooperation with associations, other nongovernmental organisations(NGOs), local groups, initiatives, and committed individuals •  ecognising the full diversity of urban society and fostering a democratic culture 31

WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Involving target groups: Different target groups have different needs. In Vienna, participation opportunities are tailored to the everyday lives of residents and take into account a wide range of individuals and groups, such as girls and women, migrants, people of all genders, people with low formal education or disabilities, children and young people, and those affected by poverty. This also includes companies(e.g., cooperatives) and recipients of funding from the City of Vienna. These opportunities enable all Viennese residents who wish to become active and help bring about change. This strengthens the self-confidence, sense of responsibility, and recognition of these individuals and groups. Expanding participation formats: People are most likely to participate when they are addressed in a lowthreshold, target-group-oriented way(e.g., children and young people or new arrivals to the city) and in an inclusive manner(e.g., in their language or within their living environment). For this reason, a wide variety of participation formats is offered and continuously further developed. Opportunities for participation also arise where people spend time and interact, offline and online, increasingly supported by the use of artificial intelligence. Accordingly, diverse formats are made available, including face-to-face meetings, artistic approaches, and digital platforms. Activating networks: Vienna already benefits from a strong network of NGOs, associations, and individuals who are particularly committed to democratic participation. Many of them are very familiar with the districts and maintain close relationships with underrepresented and disadvantaged individuals and groups who are often not heard. Because they are trusted within these communities, they act as important bridge-builders and help facilitate communication with them. To reduce barriers to participation, various networks actively help to design participatory opportunities and, where appropriate, implement them independently. New networks are also supported and strengthened wherever possible. 32

WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON Participation Workshop: The Participation Workshop, run by the City of Vienna’s Office for Participation and Empowerment, promotes exchange and dialogue, especially with people who have had little previous experience with participatory processes. The workshop strengthens democratic skills and seeks solutions and measures to expand participation opportunities in the city. In addition, the city administration collaborates closely with partners such as associations, NGOs, and interested residents to foster greater cooperation. To actively raise awareness of participation opportunities, on-site visits and outreach workshops are organised in the districts, offering playful activities, interactive formats, and easily understandable information. Urban Renewal Program “WieNeu+”: The urban renewal programme“WieNeu+” continues the“gentle” urban renewal and redevelopment of the city. It has been promoted since the 1970s through the local Urban Renewal Office(Gebietsbetreuung Stadterneuerung – GB*).“WieNeu+” focuses on implementing climatefriendly and future-proof solutions in Vienna’s neighbourhoods. For this purpose, the City of Vienna works closely with local partners and residents. Through the programme’s“Grätzlmarie” ideas budget, residents can submit project proposals aimed at creating a climate-friendly neighbourhood. A neighbourhood advisory board, consisting of residents and representatives of local initiatives, selects the best ideas for funding.  Clients’ Council: The FSW Clients’ Council is a directly elected group consisting of customers of the Vienna Disability Assistance who represent their concerns to the Vienna Social Fund(FSW). The aim is to jointly develop and optimise the services provided by the FSW for people with disabilities. The council has rules of procedure that govern its cooperation with the FSW. Networking with other interest and self-advocacy groups, partner organisations, and political representatives is central to the work of the FSW Clients’ Council. The council also actively participated in the development of measures within the framework of Inclusive Vienna 2030. The Participatory Children and Youth Million : The Participatory Children and Youth Million was created during the development of the Vienna Children and Youth Strategy, which also identified the Vienna Children and Youth Parliament as a key measure. Both initiatives are already being implemented. Young people have a say in which projects are to be promoted through the Participatory Children and Youth Million. Since 2023, this process has been carried out regularly: project ideas are collected, selected, and allocated adequate resources. All young Viennese aged between 5 and 20 can submit their ideas, which are then put to an online vote. The winning projects are then presented to the local council and subsequently implemented by the city administration. For this purpose, the City of Vienna regularly allocates one million euros. Local Urban Planning: The City of Vienna aims to bring sustainable urban development to life at a local level and demonstrate how Vienna is preparing for the future. The project“Gemma Zukunft” is a prime example of this: from April to October, expert-led walks and bike tours offer insights into urban development areas and current public transport construction sites. In matters of walking and cycling, the City of Vienna’s Mobility Agency serves as the central point of contact for anyone with suggestions for improvement. Acting as a mediator between city politics, the administration, and residents, it works to expand walking and cycling in Vienna and to make both safer. 33

3.2 Strengthening community life and cooperation Democracy takes place every day in various locations throughout Vienna. Democratic processes create spaces for encounters that promote exchange and networking and support a culture of mutual recognition. Listening to other opinions is central to good coexistence. In this way, coexistence is negotiated democratically and democracy is promoted in everyday life. At the same time, people’s self-efficacy is increased. They experience that their own voice counts and that they can influence decisions made by city politicians and administrators. WHAT IT IS ABOUT •  aking democratic principles such as fairness and mutual consideration, tangible in all areas of urban life •  nabling exchange and networking in a variety of meeting spaces, both online and offline •  stablishing clear rules for interaction to support respectful and constructive encounters •  ostering a sense of community that strengthens social cohesion and enhances both individual and collective well-being 35

WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Experiencing self-efficacy: Even in kindergarten, the youngest children learn to express their needs and share toys with others. At school, discussions and group work are integral parts of learning. In the workplace, colleagues with different skills collaborate and contribute to a greater whole. In self-organised or self-managed community spaces, such as associations or cooperatives, neighbours come together and learn to take responsibility collectively. This enables the people of Vienna to develop their strengths. Through participatory processes, they also learn that their voices matter and that they can actively contribute to shaping the city’s future. People are supported in turning their ideas into action. Facilitating encounters: Viennese residents use their own neighbourhoods and living environments(e.g., in non-profit housing and municipal housing) as major venues for encounters and participation in participatory projects. Public and semi-public spaces are of central importance for democratic experiences and good coexistence. These include parks, squares, schools, sports fields, day centres, libraries, cultural spaces, religious sites, and meeting places for informal networks. Even when meeting at work or online, for example, people show mutual respect when exchanging their views. Strengthening civil society: Civil society consists of independent, politically and socially engaged residents, associations, and NGOs. Low-threshold and inclusive meeting places across all districts enable people to come together, exchange ideas, and work jointly on projects. Improved framework conditions and supportive measures encourage more people to engage, whether professionally or on a voluntary basis, in promoting democratic and solidarity-based coexistence in the city. This includes offering childcare, reimbursing individual expenses for time-intensive participation, and providing financial support for neighbourhood projects or selforganised activities. Living diversity: Vienna takes pride in its long-standing and deeply rooted diversity, which is understood as a lived reality, independent of origin. Shared rules for living together in the city are based on mutual respect and equal opportunities. Participation, therefore, includes recognising and appreciating the needs and perspectives of others. A safe and welcoming environment ensures that everyone feels heard and valued. Discrimination has no place here; interactions remain respectful. This helps ensure that positive experiences with democracy stay with people and shape their perception of the city. 36

Launch event for the Office for Participation and Empowerment, 5 June 2024 WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON GB* Urban Renewal Office: The GB* Urban Renewal Office is a service facility established 50 years ago by the City of Vienna, operating a total of 12 locations in Vienna today. The district and neighbourhood offices serve not only as contact points for residents’ questions and concerns, but also as vibrant meeting places that foster exchange, community life, and learning within the district. Here, people can contribute ideas for urban development, get to know their neighbours, and work together to shape and improve their local environment. Offers that encourage sharing and exchange, such as the GB* initiative“Garteln ums Eck”(Gardening around the Corner), promote civic engagement and strengthen neighbourhood cohesion. The GB* also supports educational, environmental, and greening projects, facilitates neighbourhood initiatives, and provides advice on topics such as renovation, tenancy law, and living environments. Its strong local presence in the districts is an important factor in strengthening social cohesion. Local Agenda 21 Association: The Local Agenda 21 Association strengthens citizen participation and sustainable development through close cooperation with the city administration, district politicians, and civil society. In twelve Viennese districts, “Grätzllabore”(Neighbourhood Labs) support committed residents in actively shaping their neighbourhoods. In co-creative processes, the administration, district representatives, and residents work together to implement sustainable projects. From community gardens to innovative mobility solutions, these neighbourhood laboratories help turn ideas into reality. The citywide programme“Grätzloase” (Neighbourhood Oasis) brings people together and makes public spaces accessible to all. Through campaigns and projects, such as “Green Parklets”,“Young Grätzl”, and“Grätzl Life”, new meeting places are being created that strengthen neighbourhoods and foster social cohesion within the districts. Vienna Education Neighbourhoods: In the Vienna Education Neighbourhoods (“Bildungsgrätzl”), schools work together with kindergartens and other local educational and social institutions to organise a wide range of educational, leisure, and counselling services in the residential environment. The goal is to increase educational success and thus contribute to equal opportunities. The work in the Education Neighbourhoods has a positive effect on community life in the district. That is why the joint motto is:“It takes a Grätzl to raise a child.”(“Grätzl”= neighbourhood) Culture Lab in Municipal Housing: The Culture Lab in Municipal Housing is a project run by “wohnpartner”, the neighbourhood service for municipal housing in Vienna. It offers a platform for creative projects in municipal housing estates, aiming at transforming residents’ living environments into places of artistic encounter and exchange. This approach encourages the joint development of inspiring art and cultural projects by artists and residents, fostering interest in art and culture among the community. In turn, this strengthens harmonious coexistence and contributes to vibrant neighbourhood life across Vienna’s districts. Cultural anchor centres: The City of Vienna is expanding cultural opportunities in the districts through the Cultural Anchor Centres Initiative. These centres function as local cultural hubs, providing low-cost access to a broad and multidisciplinary range of artistic and cultural activities. Programme content is developed in cooperation with established cultural institutions with active involvement from local communities, ensuring that diverse cultural backgrounds and social needs are taken into account. In doing so, the initiative supports an inclusive, diverse, equitable, and vibrant cultural landscape across Vienna’s neighbourhoods. Affordable workspaces for artists with lower incomes were also made available. The Cultural Anchor Centres have now been firmly embedded in Vienna’s Culture Strategy 2030. 37

3.3 Promoting a culture of discussion and debate It is important to communicate openly and to treat dialogue partners as equals. Negotiations and compromises are integral parts of democratic decision-making processes, for which appropriate spaces for participation and suitable time frames are provided. This fosters a culture of dialogue and debate, builds new skills, and allows different discussion formats to be tested. Low-threshold advisory services and independent ombudspersons can also play a crucial role in supporting equitable solutions. Through their professional expertise, they review proposals from Viennese residents, provide support where appropriate, and thus contribute to direct participation. WHAT IT IS ABOUT •  eveloping communication channels and participation formats that enable all residents to actively engage in democratic dialogue •  ffering training courses and workshops on democracy and participation for the people of Vienna •  trengthening residents’ sense of belonging to the City of Vienna, and with it, their willingness to take responsibility for fostering good coexistence •  trengthening independent bodies in order to expand lowthreshold support and counselling services for concerns and conflict situations 39

WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Engaging in dialogue: Dialogue is an exchange between different individuals or groups. Everyone has the opportunity to speak and is expected to listen to others. In a diverse city like Vienna, there is a wide range of opinions and interests, and not all wishes can always be taken into account equally. Everyone involved in a project defines what they understand to be good communication and a culture of debate. City politicians and administrators already practice this in city council meetings. In conversations with residents, they adopt an open and solution-oriented approach. If necessary, dialogues can also be professionally facilitated.  eeking solutions: All participants in a project show a willingness to compromise. This means they work to find shared solutions, even when their opinions differ. Different viewpoints are addressed openly, misunderstandings are clarified as quickly as possible, and challenges are resolved constructively. Clear rules for respectful interaction support this process. Offering training: The City of Vienna implements targetgroup-oriented specific courses, training sessions, and workshops on democracy and participation, offered both online and offline as needed. Digital channels, existing points of contact in people’s everyday lives, and multipliers are used to promote these opportunities. In this way, people of all ages can strengthen their discussion and debate skills and gain practical experience. Training courses focus on topics such was conflict management, willingness to compromise, and decision-making skills, nonviolent communication, moderation, active listening, and conflict resolution strategies. Strengthening support structures: Residents have access to counselling centres, interest groups, associations, methodological tools, and trained experts. These advise them on specific issues and support them in discussions or conflict situations on site. Existing low-threshold, confidential, and free advisory services on specialised topics are being further strengthened. Peer counselling is used to find suitable solutions, while professional moderators and mediators can be involved when necessary. They ensure that all participants are heard and that opposing positions are communicated clearly and balanced fairly. 40

WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON Vienna Lectures: The Vienna Lectures are an event series organised by the City of Vienna, offering direct exchange with experts from the fields of science and research since 1987. The events take place at the invitation of the Mayor of Vienna and the City Councillor for Culture and Science. All Vienna Lectures are available online at any time and free of charge. In the past year, discussions focused on topics such as threats to democracy, digital debates, and political manipulation. Climate Mosaic: The Climate Mosaic(“Klima-Mosaik”) of the Vienna Climate Team is an educational game that playfully explains the causes and consequences of climate change in Vienna. It also explains the objectives of the Vienna Climate Roadmap in more detail. This roadmap focuses on the implementation of measures that serve climate protection and climate adaptation, both of which are central concerns of city policy and administration. The City of Vienna aims to become climateneutral by 2040. Conflict mediation: The organisation“wohnpartner” supports residents of municipal housing through community work, conflict management, and local networking, for example, via tenants’ advisory boards. Strengthening neighbourly relations is a key priority. To this end, conflict mediation services are provided to help young people and adults resolve everyday disputes, such as noise issues, smoking in hallways, or shared use of courtyards. Particularly difficult cases are accompanied by trained mediators. Democracy Café: Educational work is also one of the many activities carried out by“wohnpartner” in municipal housing. The Democracy Café was launched in 2024 to inform residents about elections in Austria and opportunities for co-determination in a relaxed atmosphere and to motivate them to get involved. When people in Vienna go to the polls, democratic co-determination is put into practice in everyday life. creating a respectful and inclusive living environment for everyone in the city. Independent Ombudspersons: The City of Vienna has independent offices for various issues that provide free advice to residents, represent their interests when necessary, and help resolve conflicts. These include the Vienna Environmental Ombudsman, the Vienna Animal Welfare Ombudsman, the Equal Treatment Officer, the external reporting office for EU legal violations, the independent employee protection officer, the Vienna Care and Patient Ombudsman, and the Vienna Children and Youth Ombudsman. FAIR-PLAY-TEAMS: Since 2010, the City of Vienna has supported community life in the districts through its“FAIR-PLAY-TEAMS”. They engage with residents in public spaces and help improve mutual understanding in conflict situations. In doing so, they encourage Viennese residents to express their needs and show consideration for one another. The teams are there for all age groups and make a decisive contribution to 41

3.4 Providing more information and removing barriers Comprehensible information and accessible services enable everyone who wants to participate to do so. This breaks down barriers in political, administrative, and social areas and allows all Viennese residents to help shape their living environment by openly expressing their needs and interests. WHAT IT IS ABOUT •  nsuring that no one is excluded •  nsuring that all Viennese residents are informed about democracy and participation opportunities and how to get involved •  ommunicating political decisions and administrative processes in a clear and comprehensible way •  eveloping permanent and inclusive information and participation formats 43

The Salt of Democracy. Workshop for Participation in cooperation with wohnpartner, 6 September 2024 WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Providing information: Information about participation opportunities is tailored to different target groups and presented in an easily understandable way, with clear and transparent framework conditions. Communication takes place both offline and online and is accessible to everyone. There is a particular focus on simple language and multilingualism. The city provides active and transparent information on the participation processes available and specifically addresses underrepresented and disadvantaged groups. Progress and results are made publicly available. Increasing visibility : A central contact point in the City of Vienna informs, connects, and advises residents on existing participation opportunities and supports them in making use of these offers. Publicly visible and inviting information points ensure that all residents know where to turn if they wish to help shape political and social developments in Vienna. Target groups are actively invited to participate through a variety of communication channels, including public campaigns. Reducing barriers: Everyone should be able to access information and take part in democratic processes, regardless of citizenship, education, social background, gender, age, or disability. Together with civil society, the City of Vienna identifies barriers to participation and continues to break them down. This includes analogue services tailored to specific target groups, translation services, and digital tools such as the central participation platform. These measures also enable people who cannot attend in-person meetings 44

WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON Online Participation platform “mitgestalten”: On the City of Vienna’s online participation platform“mitgestalten”, all residents can learn about current opportunities to get involved. The platform is user-friendly and offers multiple ways to participate, for example, by submitting ideas, commenting on proposals, or voting on projects. It communicates projects transparently and openly. By strengthening digital dialogue between city politicians, the administration, and the public, barriers to participation are reduced. Vienna’s City Service: Vienna’s City Service informs residents about a wide range of services offered by the city, such as information events and guided tours of Vienna City Hall, to sales points for the Vienna City Card for tourists. It also helps solve everyday challenges. With the“Sag’s Wien” app, for example, residents can easily report issues such as broken lifts or hazardous road spots directly to the City of Vienna simply from their smartphone. Citizen Participation and Communication Unit: The unit supports Vienna’s urban development projects and initiatives based on the Participatory Urban Development Master Plan. It enables residents to contribute ideas and participate from the very beginning of planning processes. The Urban Development Service Centre provides information about legal frameworks such as the Vienna Building Code, on current urban development projects, and on the associated zoning and development plans. Additional information about specific development areas and participation opportunities is available online via the project list or through the participation newsletter. The unit also establishes local contact points on site, for example,“Mitte15”, “Stadtraum am Nordwestbahnhof”, or“Zukunftshof in Rothneusiedl”. Women’s Centre: The City of Vienna’s Women’s Centre is the central point of contact for women in Vienna, offering free, confidential, and, if desired, anonymous initial counselling and information. An interdisciplinary team of lawyers, social workers, and psychologists provides support on topics such as initial legal advice in family law(e.g., divorce, separation, custody), social counselling(e.g., social benefits, returning to work), and psychological support in difficult life situations. Counselling is available by telephone, in person, or by email, in German and English, with legal advice also available in Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian. The Women’s Centre also organises thematic information days. Advice and service centres in the arts and culture sector: Vienna has several municipal advice and service centres dedicated to different cultural fields, including the Vienna Film Commission, the Vienna Club Commission, and “Kreative Räume Wien”(Creative Spaces Vienna). There are also interest groups(IGs) representing independent artists and cultural workers, advocating on their behalf in relation to the City of Vienna’s cultural policy. These institutions connect stakeholders, serve as contact points for artists, policymakers, administrators and interested residents, and provide advice on a wide range of sectorspecific issues; from legal matters and workspaces to fair pay and funding opportunities for cultural projects. They also keep the public informed about the diverse activities of Vienna’s arts and culture scene. 45

3.5 Democracy education and opinion formation Democratic processes improve when they are tested collaboratively, and all participants learn from mistakes. Participation must be understood as a fundamental principle across city administration and politics at both the municipal and district levels. The more Viennese residents engage in shaping and co-determining their city, the more democratic these processes become. Through their involvement and gained experience, people develop a sound understanding of social and political contexts. WHAT IT IS ABOUT •  as many different people and groups as possible •  political contexts understandable •  mpowering the people of Vienna to develop their own political views based on verified information and actively contribute to democratic debate •  aking democracy tangible not only as a system, but as a living process 47

WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Promoting awareness: The City of Vienna offers many low-threshold educational opportunities that make participation and democracy tangible. Experimental or artistic formats, for example, enable participants to shift perspectives playfully, seeing an issue not from their own point of view, but from another person or group. This strengthens democratic awareness and skills. In the process, participants also develop abilities in analysis, dialogue, and negotiation. Creating knowledge: Exchanging experiences and transferring knowledge allows people to learn from those who have already taken part in participatory processes. City policy and administration also actively communicate and impart knowledge by explaining political contexts and providing target group-specific information on the background, processes, and results of decisions. Democracy does not mean that every wish can be fulfilled. Often, it requires accepting majorities or understanding where participation has its limits, or that decisions must be made in the interest of the common good. When these aspects are explained clearly and accessibly, decisions become easier to understand. This builds trust in democratic institutions and encourages people to continue to stay involved in the future. Strengthening skills: Educational programmes for all target groups and age groups support the development of key competencies, such as understanding democracy, political and social participation, and dealing with media and information. They convey knowledge about political parties, democratic processes such as elections, and the structure of city administrations. Through courses offered by Vienna’s diverse institutions, participants learn to use social media critically and to recognise fake news. Topics such as diversity, inclusion, and health are also part of the curriculum. Gaining experience: Existing institutions and organisations in the city, particularly in the education sector, such as kindergartens and schools, are supported in expanding participation opportunities for groups that are typically difficult to reach. Both one-off and ongoing projects help participants develop and deepen democratic skills. Expertise in democratic participation is constantly being expanded and applied. Experimental spaces such as citizens’ councils or public forums enable people to contribute ideas, take part in discussions, and exchange experiences. 48

WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON Training opportunities for multipliers: The City of Vienna offers various training opportunities for multipliers on topics such as participation, integration, and communication. These are designed to support professionals and volunteers in their work with diverse target groups. The“Migra-Bil” project offers training courses and workshops for migrants to enable them to reach out to people in their communities and encourage them to get involved in community life. A stronger understanding of participation helps reinforce social cohesion in a democratic society. Democracy Centre: The Democracy Centre of the Vienna Youth Centres Association is aimed at professionals working with teenagers and young adults in extracurricular settings. The centre promotes democratic participation and political education, including awareness-raising on extremism in youth work, thereby making an important contribution to both youth engagement and the prevention of radicalisation. In order to develop the skills of young people, workshops and training courses(e.g., gaming vs. fake news) are offered for professionals. This supports opinion-forming in an open urban society and encourages the active participation of young people. Democracy and media education programmes for adults: The Vienna Public Learning Centres (VHS), the largest adult education provider in the German-speaking world, enable residents to expand their skills and contribute to shaping urban society. They offer courses such as“Political Café: What does democracy have to do with me?”, or“Digitalisation: the friendly Big Brother?”. Additional programmes are also provided by other adult education institutions. Democracy in schools: The Vienna Democracy School is a participatory programme run by the City of Vienna, implemented by the Vienna Youth Centres Association, and aims to structurally strengthen democratic school culture. The aim is to experience and live democracy in everyday school life, enabling students to experience selfefficacy through participation and shared decision-making while fostering mutual trust. Additionally, “WIENXTRA” offers support for political education and the development of democratic skills in schools through its“SMG Schüler_ innenMitGestaltung”(Pupils with a Say) programme. Vienna Health Promotion(WiG): The“Wiener Gesundheitsförderung” is an important point of contact and centre of expertise for health promotion in Vienna. Its central concern is to contribute to equal opportunities for a healthy or healthier life. Its activities, services, and projects help strengthen healthy lifestyles, create healthy living and working environments, and promote the mental well-being of all people living in Vienna by building relevant skills. In addition, health disadvantages linked to social status, gender, or migration background are to be reduced. 49

3.6 Institutionalising participation Participation is a key prerequisite for a functioning and adaptable democracy. It enables everyone to play an active role in urban policy and in shaping their living environment. In this way, people can contribute their interests and needs to existing institutions or newly created processes and participation formats. Urban policy and city administration ensure transparency about the possibilities and limits of participation and how decisions are made. Lessons are learned from experience, and procedures are further developed to ensure that many Viennese residents are represented. WHAT IT IS ABOUT •  additional, effective, new, and interlinked participation opportunities at various levels of politics and administration •  stablishing central contact points and raising awareness of them •  processes transparent 51

WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Developing participation: The City of Vienna is further developing new and existing participation formats. Successful and effective pilot projects are being consolidated and embedded into permanent structures. These formats range from information and consultation to co-creation. To support this, transparent and binding framework conditions, e.g., procedural guidelines for city administrations, are being established. This forms the basis for all Viennese residents to help shape their living environment and to initiate and implement participatory processes. Wherever possible, residents, civil society organisations, and experts are involved in this development work. Creating structures: Binding foundations for the use of new democracy tools, such as lotterybased participation formats and participatory budgets, are being created and institutionalised at various levels. The City ensures transparency, shared decisionmaking, and accountability through accessible procedures that are easy to understand. Representatives of city politics and administration provide information and answer open questions. Ensuring quality: Binding guidelines and standards safeguard the quality of participation processes. Various contact points within the City of Vienna review and respond to suggestions from residents. If participation opportunities do not meet the desired quality criteria, they are revised and improved. All processes are transparent: residents are informed about how the results were reached and how they will be used. Encouraging experimentation: Traditional participation opportunities(e.g., information events or workshops) are increasingly supplemented by digital platforms or workshops, offered either on-site or online. New processes, methods, and pilot projects are tested to gain practical experience. These first-time initiatives may be accompanied by scientific evaluation. Failure is also permitted, as it can provide valuable insights. If results are positive, the pilot can be introduced permanently; if not, the project is discontinued. This culture of experimentation promotes enthusiasm for shared decisionmaking. 52

WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON Information database of the Vienna Provincial Parliament and City Council(INFODAT): The information database on provincial and city politics in Vienna(INFODAT), in place since 2001, offers residents transparent access to minutes of municipal council meetings as well as political decisions on laws, projects, and budgets dating back to 1987. In addition, the“DigiPol” system supports the work of Vienna’s political committees. Petition platform: Via the petition platform, Viennese residents aged 16 and over, regardless of their citizenship, can submit requests to the City of Vienna, for example, on topics such as unsealing streets or creating new cycle paths. They can submit their petitions in the form of signature lists or directly on the platform. Once a petition receives more than 500 signatures, it is reviewed by the Petitions Committee of the Vienna City Council. Applicants may attend in person. Master Plan for Participatory Urban Development: The City of Vienna’s Master Plan for Participatory Urban Development establishes clear rules for the participation of Viennese residents in major urban development projects and is implemented by the Office for Participation and Empowerment. Participation processes help prepare political and administrative decisions by balancing different interests in the spirit of the common good. The accompanying Practical Guide to Participation offers a wide range of useful methods for implementing participatory processes in urban development. Office for Participation and Empowerment: The City of Vienna’s Office for Participation and Empowerment serves as a central point of contact for participation. It facilitates exchange, networking, and shared learning and provides information about participation opportunities through its own formats, such as the Vienna Climate Team, the Participation Workshop, the “Stammtisch mit Wirkung”, the Democracy Newsletter, and its Instagram account. A key priority is reaching disadvantaged and underrepresented groups in Vienna’s urban society. The Vienna Climate Team project is already putting this into practice: it enables all Viennese residents to get involved in creating a good climate in their neighbourhoods. Ideas submitted are developed into projects in collaboration with the city administration and selected by a jury of residents chosen by lottery. The Office for Participation and Empowerment also advises political and administrative bodies on planning participation processes, helping to gradually remove existing barriers within the city. 53

3.7 Opening up politics and administration Decisions made by city politicians and administrators are strengthened by the participation and suggestions of many different people and groups, especially girls and women, migrants, people of all genders, people with low levels of formal education or disabilities, children and young people, older people, and those affected by poverty. This fosters a new culture of participation in which shared decisions are communicated more clearly by city politicians and administrators. As a result, participants feel better represented and trust in democratic institutions is strengthened. WHAT IT IS ABOUT •  ommunicating the background, processes, and results of decisions actively •  romoting partnerships between politics, administration, science, and culture, and working even more closely with civil society •  emonstrating understanding of the different needs of all people living in the city and taking these into account more effectively in decisions made by city politicians and administrators •  aking democracy in Vienna adaptable and dynamic, thereby strengthening it in the long term 55

WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE Further developing democracy: New opportunities and impulses for strengthening both representative and direct democracy are being created. Administrative processes are being opened up, and greater attention is paid to diversity in decisionmaking and representation, ensuring that the perspectives of girls and women, migrants, people of all genders, individuals with low formal education or disabilities, children and young people, and people affected by poverty are more strongly considered. In doing so, the City takes into account the diverse lived realities of as many residents as possible. Broad and diverse participation is an essential prerequisite for the successful development of democracy. Valuing engagement: Wherever possible, Viennese residents are involved in the political opinionforming process, whether in an advisory role or through co-creative cooperation. This creates a participatory culture based on equality and mutual respect. City policymakers and administrators recognise and value the expertise and commitment of Vienna’s residents, thereby strengthening mutual trust. Partnerships between politics, administration, science, and civil society are promoted by offering individual expense allowances for participation and childcare for time-consuming and participationintensive projects. Creating transparency: Political and administrative processes are designed to be transparent and implemented as promptly as possible. Participation formats at both the district and city levels enable residents to engage directly with political and administrative representatives. The exchange of information makes decisions more understandable and transparent. Policymakers and administrators take the concerns and viewpoints of residents seriously and view feedback as an opportunity for further improvement. They also demonstrate that participation influences decisions, even if not all wishes can be fulfilled. Promoting learning: Learning takes place at all levels, among policymakers, administrators, the urban community as a whole, and each individual within it. Employees of the city administration receive training to support the planning and implementation of participation projects. Framework conditions are created to facilitate the exchange of information and experiences. Participation is developed collaboratively, and continuous learning is actively encouraged. 56

WHAT WE ARE BUILDING ON Services in the districts: Viennese residents can find out about current projects, plans, and events in their district via the district information service. During the district council’s office hours, they can address their concerns personally to their political representatives. Districtrelated issues can also be discussed in residents’ meetings. In addition, districts have participatory budgets that can be used to redesign parks and streets or to finance projects for both younger and older residents. District residents can actively participate by contributing their ideas to help shape their neighbourhood. Nearly all district council meetings can be followed via livestream, and the minutes are available for download. Women’s survey“Vienna, as she wants it”: The women’s survey “Vienna, as she wants it” was conducted by the City of Vienna in 2022. Its main aim was to reach as many women as possible and to gain insight into their diverse ideas, wishes, and needs. Participants were asked about their concerns in various areas of life, such as housing, work, or health, and what suggestions they have. A total of 15,500 Viennese women took part, and the results led to the development of solutions to existing difficulties faced by women in Vienna that are linked to their real-life situations. Wishes included more time, more space, and more opportunities. Innovation management in the municipal administration: An important service offered by the City of Vienna is innovation management in the municipal administration, which is also included in the Economic and Innovation Strategy 2030. Employees of the city administration develop innovative solutions that contribute to the continuous improvement of municipal services and processes. Examples from recent years include the“Participatory Climate Budget” and the“Get out of Gas Neighbourhood Coordination Team(RAG-GKT)”. School renovation – measures and refurbishments: Since 2007, the City of Vienna has been financing the maintenance and renovation of school buildings with its school renovation programme. Measures include projects such as façade restoration, the installation of accessible toilets, and the upkeep of energy systems. To ensure userfriendly planning, participatory projects involving pupils, parents, and teachers are carried out. In this way, future-oriented educational spaces are created that support a pleasant learning and working environment. 57

4. From strategy to implementation

The initial proposals for crosscutting measures are intended to promote the vision of Viennese democracy with its characteristics of being vibrant, learning, and adaptable. In the coming years, further measures will be developed and implemented by city policymakers and administrators in collaboration with the entire urban community. The initial measures are intended to advance the development of democracy in the city of Vienna step by step. 1. CONTACT PERSONS& NETWORKING The City of Vienna promotes the expansion and development of contact points at both the municipal and district levels that support active participation among residents. These include, for example, district offices, the Area Management for Urban Renewal, the Urban Development Service Centre, the neighbourhood laboratories of the organisations“Lokale Agenda 21 Wien”,“WIENXTRA”, the Democracy Office, the Office for Participation and Empowerment, and the participation platform “Wien mitgestalten”(Help shape Vienna). Residents are informed about existing opportunities for participation in a target grouporiented and low-threshold manner, for example, in simple language, in their own mother tongue, or directly in their neighbourhood, and are connected with the appropriate contact persons. 2. PROCESSES& REFORMS To further strengthen democracy in Vienna, framework conditions are being developed that enable all residents, regardless of citizenship, education, social background, gender, age, or disability, to participate more actively. In doing so, legislative and decision-making levels at the federal, state, and municipal levels will be taken into account and, wherever possible, legal foundations will be created. Reforms of existing instruments, such as the petition system, and the introduction of new participation processes are being discussed. New services could include, for example, lottery-based democracy projects at various levels to complement representative democracy(e.g., citizens’ councils or juries), as well as participatory budgets. The opportunities and limitations of cooperation with academia and civil society are also being addressed. 3. SPACES& FUNDING To support civil society engagement, the City of Vienna is making additional spaces available and will gradually expand existing offers in the coming years. Furthermore, funding will be provided for projects that promote political education or foster social cohesion(e.g., financial support for neighbourhood and selforganised activities) in the city. The City Administration is creating the necessary framework conditions for these measures. 59

4. STANDARDS& IMPACT The City of Vienna is developing binding quality standards for participation processes, which will make future procedures more transparent, effective, and reliable. Discussions are underway whether a position should be created within the city administration to regularly review the implementation of the quality standards. 5. PARTICIPATION& TARGET GROUP ACTIVATION Vienna particularly promotes the participation of disadvantaged and underrepresented individuals and groups, including girls and women, migrants, people of all genders, people with low formal education or disabilities, children and young people, and those affected by poverty. Participation is outreach-based, meaning it takes place where residents spend their everyday lives. New, innovative, and, above all, inclusive forms of participation are used, and cooperation with a range of network partners is strengthened. For projects that require significant time commitments, the City is creating supportive conditions, such as expense allowances and childcare, to facilitate participation. 6. DIALOGUE& EXCHANGE The City of Vienna is continuously developing existing information and discussion forums between city politics, the administration, and civil society, for instance, through moderated dialogue discussions. This strengthens exchange at both municipal and district levels and promotes respectful dialogue on an equal footing. In doing so, the City demonstrates the vision of Viennese democracy as a vibrant, learning, and adaptive system – one that fosters mutual understanding and trust in democratic institutions. 7. EXPERIMENTATION& OWNERSHIP 8. KNOWLEDGE& DECISION-MAKING Democratic decisions are made on the basis of data and facts (e.g., open data) and with the involvement of experts. To strengthen this, the City aims to establish a democracy advisory board that will support policymakers and administrators in addressing current social challenges in the city and contribute to the development of a democracy monitor. In addition, studies, for example, on the use of participation services provided by the City of Vienna, will help to justify decisions more clearly and make their impacts more measurable. Various spaces for all Viennese residents wanting to try things out and experiment both online and offline are created by the City of Vienna. Participation and educational opportunities are tailored to the needs and interests of the population and are offered directly within neighbourhoods. For this reason, offerings from network partners such as neighbourhood centres, GB* districts’ offices, youth facilities, and municipal housing services are particularly supported and expanded. The City of Vienna will further develop these cross-cutting measures step by step in order to move closer to the vision of a vibrant Viennese democracy. Initial ideas were already gathered during the participation process for the development of Vienna’s Democracy Strategy 2024/25. 60

Appropriate instruments for continuous quality assurance in the implementation of democracy and participation projects are currently being developed. These instruments will help to better monitor and assess the effectiveness and impact of the strategy’s implementation across the city. Vienna’s Democracy Strategy will be communicated and promoted publicly across various channels. Interested residents are invited to actively accompany and support the future implementation of the strategy together with the City of Vienna. 61

5. Participatory development process and acknowledgements

LAUNCH WITH EXPERTS In early summer 2024, interdisciplinary working groups developed goals and initial proposals for seven fields of action. Figure 2: Participation process for Vienna’s Democracy Strategy. Source: City of Vienna/Kraftwerk DIGITAL PARTICIPATION At the beginning of 2025, all Viennese were able to view the Democracy Strategy on the City of Vienna’s participation platform and share their opinions. PRESENTATION AND DECISION In autumn 2025, the completed Democracy Strategy was submitted to the Vienna City Council for discussion and approval. PARTICIPATION IN PUBLIC SPACES IN VIENNA In summer 2024, ideas and suggestions from Viennese citizens were gathered through outreach workshop formats. REVIEW OF FEEDBACK The contributions from the digital participation were discussed with politicians and administration in spring 2025 and incorporated into the strategy. 5.1 Participatory development process The idea of developing a Democracy Strategy emerged during the Vienna Democracy Symposium in 2023, with the aim of providing the City of Vienna with a framework for strengthening democracy and further expanding participation opportunities in the coming years. From the outset, it was clear that the strategy should be developed in a participatory manner, actively involving as many representatives as possible from politics, administration, science, culture, and civil society. The political mandate for this was issued in 2024 by Jürgen Czernohorszky, City Councillor for Climate, Environment, Democracy, and Human Resources. Vienna’s Democracy Strategy was subsequently developed between May 2024 and May 2025. The participation process consisted of five phases: The kick-off event took place on 16 May 2024 and brought together around 100 representatives from politics, administration, science, culture, and civil society. Participants quickly agreed that Vienna’s Democracy Strategy should be guided by the needs of the Viennese and should enable stronger democratic participation in the future. In June and July 2024, a series of on-site and online workshops was held with around 170 participants. During these workshops, initial ideas, goals, and proposals for measures were collected. Working groups focused particularly on the seven fields of action. Over the summer, additional outreach workshops were conducted in public spaces and in cooperation with local network partners(“Fremde werden Freunde”,“Volkshilfe Wien”, “Caritas Stadtteilarbeit”, and “wohnpartner”). These workshops reached individuals and groups that are often disadvantaged or underrepresented, involving approximately 80 workshop participants and an additional 80 dialogue conversations in public spaces. 63

In autumn and winter 2024/25, representatives of the Vienna City Administration, primarily the designated democracy contact persons, were involved in the process to integrate their technical expertise on the future development of democracy and their practical experience in implementing participatory opportunities in Vienna. The offices of the various municipal departments and administrative groups were also consulted. This was followed by a phase of digital participation on the City of Vienna’s online platform“Wien mitgestalten”(Help shape Vienna). The draft of Vienna’s Democracy Strategy was presented publicly for the first time on this platform, allowing all residents to review the draft online, examine it in detail, and submit comments. The document was accessed 8,322 times and received 245 comments. The submissions were then sorted, assessed, and carefully considered by the City of Vienna. At a concluding workshop titled “Vienna’s Democracy Strategy: Results of the Participation Process” on 8 April 2025, the outcomes were presented to the public and discussed once again. The contributions were subsequently incorporated into the final version of the strategy. As this is an official document of the City of Vienna, the final decision on how the contributions were integrated, in line with the common good, rested with the City. A final internal and political consultation followed, involving the democracy contact persons and the offices of the municipal administrative groups. Finally, on 22 October 2025, Vienna’s Democracy Strategy was submitted to the Vienna City Council for political discussion and decision-making. The development process of Vienna’s Democracy Strategy was led by the Office for Participation and Empowerment of the Energy Planning Department, the Competence Centre for HigherLevel Urban Planning, Smart City Strategy, Participation and Gender Planning of the Building Authority, and the Climate& Innovation Agency UIV Urban Innovation Vienna GmbH. 64

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5.2 Acknowledgements The development of the Democracy Strategy was only possible thanks to your cooperation. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all residents of Vienna and to all institutional representatives who took part in the online participation process, commented on interim results, submitted written statements, or attended events throughout the process. Your feedback provided valuable input for the further development of the strategy. Our special thanks go to“Fremde werden Freunde”,“Caritas Stadtteilarbeit”,“wohnpartner” and“Volkshilfe Wien”. Through this collaboration, we were able to join well-established formats and engage in meaningful dialogue with diverse groups in public spaces. We would also like to thank all participants in these encounters for their openness, their perspectives, and their trust. We would like to extend particular thanks to our colleagues in the city administration, whose expertise, experience, and dedication played an essential role. A strategy for the entire City of Vienna can only be developed across departments and divisions. We therefore expressly acknowledge the committed participation of the administrative groups and the democracy contact persons nominated by them. Our heartfelt thanks also go to all other organisations and institutions that contributed their insights and ideas. Their input helped shape the substance of the strategy and enriched it through external perspectives. A very special thank you goes to Eva Gassner, who supported us with great sensitivity and clarity in translating complex formulations into more accessible language. Her contribution helped ensure that the strategy is understandable and comprehensible for as many people as possible. Finally, we would like to thank the political representatives who not only initiated the process leading to Vienna’s first Democracy Strategy but also accompanied and supported its development throughout. Without the broad commitment of politicians, administrators, civil society, and the people of Vienna, the joint creation of this strategy would not have been possible. As the project team, we extend our sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to bringing this project to life. 67

5.3 Further information FURTHER LINKS FOR THE CITY OF VIENNA Büro für Mitwirkung[Office for Participation and Empowerment]. mitwirkung.wien.gv.at Fachstelle Demokratie[Democracy Office]. fachstelledemokratie.at Gebietsbetreuung Stadterneuerung[Urban Renewal Office]. gbstern.at Informationsdatenbank des Wiener Landtages und Gemeinderats(Infodat Wien)[The information database on provincial and city politics in Vienna]. wien.gv.at/infodat Lokale Agenda 21. la21.wien Masterplan Partizipative Stadtentwicklung[Master Plan for Participatory Urban Development]. wien.gv.at/ stadtentwicklung/partizipation/masterplan Mitgestalten Beteiligungsplattform[Online Participation platform mitgestalten]. mitgestalten.wien.gv.at/de-DE Open Government Data. digitales.wien.gv.at/open-data Petitionsplattform[Petition platform]. petitionen.wien.gv.at/petition/online Praxisbuch Partizipation[Practical Guide to Participation]. wien.gv.at/stadtentwicklung/partizipation/ praxisbuch.html Servicestelle Stadtentwicklung[Urban Development Service Centre]. wien.gv.at/stadtentwicklung/ flaechenwidmung/servicestelle WIENXTRA: wienxtra.at FURTHER LINKS BEYOND THE CITY OF VIENNA Bürgerrat.de. buergerrat.de Demokratiezentrum Wien[Democracy Centre Vienna]. demokratiezentrum.org Europäische Bürgerinitiative[European Citizens’ Initiative]. citizens-initiative.europa.eu/_de Österreichischer Demokratie Monitor[Austrian Democracy Monitor]. demokratiemonitor.at Parlament Österreich[Austrian Parliament]. parlament.gv.at/beteiligen Participedia.net. participedia.net Partizipation.at. partizipation.at 68

Selected sources& references Ehs, T.,& Zandonella, M.(2024). Mehr Zusammenbringen. Zur Verbesserung politisch wirksamer Beteiligung in Wien [Bringing people together more: Improving politically effective participation in Vienna]. AK Stadtpunkte, 47. Vienna Chamber of Labour. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.arbeiterkammer.at/interessenvertretung/meinestadt/sozialestadt/Stadtpunkte_47.pdf European Commission.(2023). Schutz der Demokratie[Protecting democracy]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/new-push-european-democracy/protecting-democracy_de Redaktion WUG.(2021). Wie Ungleichheit der Demokratie schadet[How inequality harms democracy]. Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft, 47(3), 297–307. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from journals.akwien.at/index.php/wug/article/view/85 City of Vienna.(2024). Inklusives Wien 2030[Inclusive Vienna 2030]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from inklusives. wien City of Vienna.(2023). Kulturstrategie 2030[Cultural strategy 2030]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/ spezial/kulturstrategie2030 City of Vienna.(2023). Integrations-& Diversitätsmonitor. Wien 2023[Integration and diversity monitor: Vienna 2023]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/spezial/integrationsmonitor City of Vienna.(2022). Wiener Klimafahrplan. Unser Weg zur klimagerechten Stadt[Vienna climate roadmap: Our path to a climate-just city]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/spezial/klimafahrplan City of Vienna.(2022). Smart Klima City Strategie Wien. Der Weg zur Klimamusterstadt[Smart Climate City Strategy Vienna: The path to a model climate city]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/spezial/smartklimacitystrategie City of Vienna.(2022). Wien, wie sie will. Ergebnisse und Maßnahmen aus der Wiener Frauenbefragung[Vienna as women want it: Results and measures from the Vienna women’s survey]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from frauenbefragung.wien.gv.at City of Vienna.(2020). Wiener Kinder- und Jugendstrategie 2020–2025[Vienna children and youth strategy 2020– 2025]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from junges.wien.gv.at/kinder-und-jugendstrategie City of Vienna.(2017). Masterplan Partizipative Stadtentwicklung[Master plan for participatory urban development]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/stadtentwicklung/partizipation/masterplan City of Vienna.(2014). Deklaration“Wien – Stadt der Menschenrechte”[Declaration“Vienna – City of Human Rights”]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/menschen/integration/menschenrechtsstadt/prozess.html City of Vienna.(2012). Praxisbuch Partizipation. Gemeinsam die Stadt entwickeln[Participation handbook: Developing the city together]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from wien.gv.at/stadtentwicklung/partizipation/praxisbuch.html United Nations.(n.d.). Agenda 2030. 17 Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung[Agenda 2030: 17 goals for sustainable development(Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs)]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from unric.org/de/17ziele Zandonella, M.(2023). Demokratie Monitor 2023. Fokusbericht[Democracy Monitor 2023: Focus report]. Retrieved 23 September 2025, from demokratiemonitor.at/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/FORESIGHT-Bericht-22174-Demokratie-Monitor-2023.pdf 69

List of Figures Figure 1: Fundamental principles of democracy. Source: 16 Figure 2: Participation process for Vienna’s Democracy Strategy. Source: City of 63 70

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