Project regarding the topic:

International Relations (en)

Germany’s Role in the World

Political decision-makers seek answers to key questions about social and foreign policy challenges in public debate. While they make landmark decisions and establish facts, young people have little say—even though they are the ones who will feel the consequences of current decisions most acutely in their lives. The Liz Mohn Foundation wants the voices of these children and young people to be heard in current debates and therefore surveys them once a year on social and foreign policy issues. The quantitative survey results are supplemented by comments from young people. The aim is to make the voices of young people more visible in public and in debates.
Foto: Besim Mazhiqi

In 2024, young people between the ages of 14 and 27 were surveyed for the study. Since 2025, the focus has been on children and adolescents: since then, respondents have been between the ages of 12 and 18. Many political decisions, such as the possible reintroduction of compulsory military service, particularly affect young people in this age group in their life planning. The surveys are designed to capture their opinions on international and social changes and their views on Germany in international politics.

Liz Mohn, Chair of the Board of Trustees, says: “With my foundation, I want to give young people a voice and promote constructive dialogue. The younger generation should be heard in this discussion.”

Contact

Simon P. Balzert
Matthias Meis
Sanny Adam Pulka

Project news

Foto: Besim Mazhiqi

2. September 2025

The majority of young people wish to engage in society and take on responsibility

The representative survey of 12- to 18-year-olds conducted by the Liz Mohn Foundation demonstrates that children and young people want to contribute to society: Young people are in favor of compulsory service regardless of gender, which is to be completed […]
Perspectives of Young People on German Foreign Policy

12. August 2024

Perspectives of Young People on German Foreign Policy

Representative survey by the Liz Mohn Foundation among 3,300 people identifies the opinions of the young generation on Germany's role in the world.