Germany is a cosmopolitan country shaped by a pluralism of lifestyles. Of its 82.6 million inhabitants, almost 20 million have a migratory background. Modern Germany has developed into an important immigration country with relatively liberal immigration rules.
This demographic change is set to shape Germany more than virtually any other development. People from different cultures, traditions, and religions are now living together in Germany. There is also greater social openness and acceptance toward alternative ways of life and different sexual orientations. Advances are being made in terms of gender equality, and traditional gender role assignments have lost much of their former rigidity.
This year's motto— 'Vielfalt gewinnt'—is intended to explore the theme of diversity in German society and beyond. What aspects of diversity do you find most fascinating? What does diversity mean to you? What are your experiences and expectations with living in a diverse society? We invite you and your students to explore these questions.
