1,000 Volunteer Mayors Awarded Democracy Prize for Community Contributions

In Büdelsdorf, approximately 1,000 volunteer mayors were collectively honored with the Democracy Prize in recognition of their vital roles in supporting local communities and promoting democracy. This marks a unique occasion where the award was given to a group rather than an individual. Schleswig-Holstein’s Ministerpräsident Daniel Günther praised these local leaders for their indispensable services, including ensuring the readiness of fire departments, maintaining sports facilities, securing safe school routes, and providing refuge to displaced persons. He called for enhanced recognition and gratitude towards volunteer leaders who form the backbone of community life.

Alongside the Democracy Prize, the Bürgerpreis was awarded to three outstanding sports initiatives in the region. These included the 'Kita go’s swimming' project by the Turn- und Sportbund Flensburg, the inclusive run 'Gemeinsam Eins' organized by Kreis Schleswig-Flensburg, and a youth-led leisure program by the Sport- und Freizeitclub Ottendorf. Each winner received a €3,000 prize to support their efforts.

The event highlighted the crucial need for greater appreciation of volunteer contributions that strengthen democratic engagement and community well-being at the local level.