Our self-image

Who are we?

The wannseeFORUM is an independent, certified educational institution in Berlin. It is an inspiring place for education, encounters, and collaborative learning in a green setting, right on the water.
By combining political and cultural education, the wannseeFORUM Foundation promotes critical thinking, democratic action, participation, and creativity among young people and adults through a variety of seminars. The foundation operates inclusively, is non-partisan, and is networked both nationally and internationally.

Our conference center is open to guests for holding their own educational events.

As a holder of the Council of Europe Quality Label for Youth Centres, wannseeFORUM is committed to the values ​​of democracy, human rights and diversity.

Our values

Creative and critical:
We encourage young people to critically engage with social issues, develop their own opinions, and stand up for their convictions. We support them in using creative artistic and media forms of expression to present their perspectives.

Self-determined and participatory:
We promote the active participation and freedom of choice of young people. We support them in taking responsibility and shaping their lives autonomously.

Diverse and inclusive.
We break down barriers – physical, social, and cultural. We value diversity as an enrichment and treat each other with consideration, respect, and openness. Our house is open to all who share democratic values.

Democratic and non-partisan:
Our work is based on the fundamental values ​​of a democratic society. We impart knowledge and create spaces for experiencing democracy firsthand.

Vision: What do we want to achieve in the long term?

We want a society in which young people shape their future in a self-determined, critical, media-literate, and active way. In a Europe that embraces solidarity, diversity, and justice, we encourage them to take responsibility, develop new perspectives, and strengthen democratic values.
We actively shape political and cultural education in Germany and Europe and provide lasting impetus for civic engagement and international exchange.

Mission: How do we achieve this?

The wannseeFORUM in Berlin is an effective institution for the political and cultural education of young people. We support, promote, and inspire young people to think critically, take active steps, and explore new forms of expression.

Our lakeside house is the ideal place for collaborative learning, intercultural encounters, and creative processes.
We offer an inclusive space that is accessible to everyone. Our goal is to be a welcoming and open place for all, sensitive to discrimination. We address inequalities and empower those affected.

Our work is non-partisan, non-profit and always geared towards social relevance for an inclusive, democratic and cosmopolitan future.