Center for Democracy in Vocational Education

Vocational education plays a vital role in a democratic society. It offers unique opportunities to promote democratic values and address pressing social challenges.

It reaches a wide range of people — from young trainees to diverse groups in the workforce — as well as the professionals who support them in vocational schools, companies, and public institutions. This makes it a powerful platform for fostering democratic engagement across all levels of working life.

To strengthen and protect democracy within vocational education, the Center fosters dialogue on the role and relevance of democracy across multiple levels — including schools, public administration, politics, academia, and the world of work.

This exchange lays the groundwork for embedding key democratic values such as participation, agency, diversity, appreciation, and recognition more deeply into educational approaches and the organizational cultures of vocational schools.

As part of its networking activities, the Center works closely with ministries, public authorities, and other key stakeholders in vocational education — including the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB). It supports the development of democratic structures and content within the system.

In addition, the Center shares its expertise through practical tools such as guidelines, policy briefs, and examples of good practice.