"In the service of democracy, peace and development" – this is the motto that the Hanns Seidel Foundation applies to its work and mission. The motto applies not only to its commitment in Germany, especially in Bavaria, but also abroad.

The understanding of democracy has to be newly acquired in each generation.

Political connections must be clearly shown – especially to the younger people of the generation. That is the only way to motivate them to take on and committ to the responsibility of civic duty. In short: democracy requires political education that develops a civic culture.

Besides our conviction, efforts for democracy, and a free legal and social order, the fundamental principles and norms of our community have to be ensured and firmly anchored in the conscience of all citizens. The fast paced and far reaching changes our country is currently facing increase the need for values, reliable structures and comprehensible order. In other words, the increasing pressure on state and society, economy, science and technology to be innovative makes it even more necessary to remember our historical roots and our intellectual and cultural fundamentals.

Since its establishment on April 11, 1967, the Hanns Seidel Foundation has been practicing political education with the aim of supporting "the democratic and civic education of the German people with a Christian basis" – as the foundation's statutes say. Hence, the Hanns Seidel Foundation's works of political education is based on a human ideal that includes both free personality development and autonomy as well as social responsibility and solidarity. Today, with the requirements for more autonomy - a new "culture of independence" and an "active society of citizens" - increasingly evolving, this mission is more important than ever.