Democracy

Strengthening democracy and promoting human rights are central objectives of Germany’s development policy. GIZ helps its partners to establish democratic systems and network all civil society actors. Together we find solutions to political, economic and societal challenges.

‘It’s a matter of equality’

In democracies, towns and local authorities should be given more powers, says social scientist Shandana Khan Mohmand from the University of Sussex.

Living after the disaster

In April 2013, the Rana Plaza textile factory in Bangladesh collapsed, killing more than 1,100 people.

Breaking new ground together

They challenge stereotypes and are role models: female members of Jordan’s regional councils in action.

‘Don’t try to be superwomen’

Interview with Michelle Bachelet, United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The rise of women

Women have increasingly taken top-level political posts. Malliga Och describes the long road to power.

On course for a better future

Local authorities in Ukraine can now decide how they spend their money themselves.

New ways to tackle the global jobs crisis

World Bank economist David Robalino describes the fight against rising unemployment.

The powerlessness of users

‘Privacy is a human right that needs defending now more than ever’, writes Constanze Kurz member of Chaos Computer Club.

‘Africa can capture the century’

Kandeh Yumkella has left a high-ranking position at the United Nations in order to push for progress in Sierra Leone.

‘Stop saying nothing has changed!’

Tunisians should be more proud of what they have achieved after the Arab Spring, says Amel Karboul.

Diplomacy revisited

Creative minds gathered in Montreal with a common goal: to shape the future of global communication.

Zwei Frauen stehen auf einem Dach in Kairo und bauen Gemüse und andere Pflanzen an, die auf Netzen ausgelegt sind. Eine trägt ein rosa Oberteil mit einem gemusterten Schal, die andere ist in einer schwarzen Burka gekleidet. Beide halten Papiere in den Händen.

Greening Cairo’s rooftops

Vegetable growing on tower blocks: just one example of how residents are improving their living conditions.