Societal and Social Integration

A diverse, cosmopolitan, and lively climate ensures the quality of life of all Dresdeners, whether immigrated or born here. According to a questionnaire in 2012, two out of three Dresdeners see themselves as open to the world. Diversity and openness should be further encouraged. In 2009, the city council adopted the “Local Action Program for Tolerance and Democracy and Against Extremism.” It contains a commitment to openness and civil courage and against xenophobia, antisemitism, racism, and discrimination.

According to a questionnaire, almost two-thirds of Dresdeners are socially active, meaning as volunteers. The percentage of immigrants who volunteer is just as high. In Dresden, there are 32 networks, meaning associations and initiatives, of immigrants. To strengthen volunteer work, the city administration of Dresden contributes to various initiatives and associations.

The constitution of the Federal Republic of Germany does not provide for the voting rights of immigrants from outside of the European Union, but they can still participate politically with initiatives, associations, and labor unions. They also have the opportunity to vote for the Dresden Foreign Citizens Advisory Council. The Foreign Citizens Advisory Council advocates for the needs and wishes of the immigrant Dresdner, who do not have voting rights. It is intended to enable social, political and cultural participation. The panel consists of eleven foreign or naturalized members and nine people from the Dresden city council. The Foreign Citizens Advisory Council has different tasks, among which are representing the interests of foreign citizens to the city council and the mayor, cooperation with associations and political work for a municipal right to vote for people from outside of Europe. The Foreign Citizens Advisory Council is elected every five years. The participation in the vote is however very small.

Asylum seekers have the possibility, like all people with a small income, to get a “Dresden Pass.” It supports social and cultural participation. The holders of the “Dresden Pass” pay reduced entrance fees for various cultural institutions, a cheaper fare card for the tram and the bus as well as less expensive rates in libraries and courses at the adult education center.

By 2020, the Dresden city administration should take the following steps:

• The expansion and improvement of the cooperation with the Foreign Citizens Advisory Council

• Better inform foreign residents about the work of the Foreign Citizens Advisory Council and its election, which take place every five years

• The expansion and improvement of the cooperation between the city administration and the associations and initiatives of immigrated people, including in applications for funding