Exploring and Activating the Democratic Potential of Religion in Times of Growing Antisemitism and Racism

At a glance

Project duration
05/2025  – 05/2030
DFG classification of subject areas

Social and Cultural Anthropology, Non-European Cultures, Jewish Studies and Religious Studies

Funded by

Volkswagen Foundation Volkswagen Foundation

Project description

In view of the current political situation in Germany, characterized by fragmentation and polarization along religious and identitarian lines, the applicants recognize an urgent need for broad pluralistic democratic education.

The team is investigating the extent to which religious education offers potential for strengthening liberal democracies. It brings together political scientists and political education researchers as well as practical partners from the fields of political education and interreligious dialog.

The project team analyses the conditions and potentials of pro-democratic religious education by combining participatory research with action and intervention research. From this, it will develop concepts and educational formats for religious literacy and competence for schools and political educators.

Sustainable Development Goals (United Nations)

Peace, Justice, and Strong InstitutionsReducing Inequality

Principal investigator

  • Person

    Dr. Saskia Schäfer

    • Department of Asian and African Studies
    • Transformation Societies in Asia/Africa

Cooperation partners

  • Cooperation partner
    UniversityGermany

    Free University of Berlin

  • Cooperation partner
    Germany

    Kreuzberger Initiative gegen Antisemitismus e.V.

  • Cooperation partner
    Germany

    meet2respect gUG