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Opening Event of AEMS and GBS 2025
Democracy in a changing climate
Across the globe, democratic systems are under pressure. Authoritarian tendencies, social polarization, and global crises are testing the strength of our democratic structures. At the same time, the changing climate poses a challenge to our infrastructures, our homes and our way of life. This event will explore the complex challenges and opportunities for democracy in a rapidly changing world.
Key questions include: What challenges does the climate crisis pose for democratic decision-making? How can urban planning and architecture foster civic participation? What role does the legal system play in safeguarding democratic values? And how can the arts open up new spaces for democratic expression and engagement?
Through interdisciplinary conversations we will bring together diverse perspectives and explore how democracy can remain vibrant, inclusive, and resilient into the future.
The event will kick off the interdisciplinary summer universities “Alternative Economic and Monetary Systems (AEMS)” and “Green.Building.Solutions. (GBS)”, welcoming international changemakers in Vienna – the European Capital of Democracy in 2025.
Register here!
Event Program
4:30 pm Welcome coffee and arrival
Join us for coffee and sweets as guests arrive and settle in
5:00 pm Welcome addresses delivered by
- Guenther Jedliczka, CEO of OeAD student housing
- Carina Kamptner, Organizational Head of the AEMS Summer University
- Barbara Mayr, Organizational Head of the GBS Summer University
5:30 pm Thematic impulses
With contributions from
- Michaela Krömer, attorney-at-law and founder of CLAW-initiative for climate justice
- Doris Österreicher, architect and university professor at the University of Stuttgart
- Thomas Thaler, deputy of the Institute of Landscape Planning at BOKU University
- Valerie Huber, actress, activist, author
6:30 pm Panel discussion
With the keynote speakers, moderated by Alicia Prager, Der Standard. The discussion will reflect on the thematic inputs and open up the conversation with the audience.
7:30 pm Evening reception with finger food buffet
7:45 pm DJ Eugene plays MONEY party tunes in the TÜWI bar
Register here!
Many thanks to our public and private sponsors that make this event and our two summer universities possible!
