Hanna-Renate Laurien Lecture 2026
Hanna-Renate Laurien stood for integrity and persuasive conviction in politics. Deeply rooted in Christian faith, she advocated for education, democracy, and equality; for reconciliation with Poland; against xenophobia and racism; and for remembrance of the victims of National Socialism. Following her example, the lecture focuses on central questions of our time – situated between value orientation, political responsibility, and social cohesion.
This year’s keynote speaker is Katharina Günther-Wünsch, Senator for Education, Youth, and Family. Under the title “Democracy Needs Education – Education Needs Conviction”, she will explore how civic education, school practice, and value-based upbringing can strengthen our democratic culture.
Following the impulses of Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer (2023), Cornelia Seibeld (2024), and Ute Bonde (2025), the 4th Hanna-Renate-Laurien Lecture continues the successful series – as a forum for clear positions, intellectual orientation, and lively dialogue about the future of the democracy.
IN GERMAN
