Sandra Grätsch: A new beginning for Schweinfurt and citizen participation!

Sandra Grätsch: A new beginning for Schweinfurt and citizen participation!

An exciting political change is underway in the Bavarian city of Schweinfurt. Sandra Grätsch, the candidate for mayor, has clear ideas for the future development of her homeland. She wants a new beginning and has founded the *free voters' community SWN* in order not to be tied to the framework of party politics. Grätsch emphasizes that she will not make empty promises and criticizes her competitors for stoking fear as a means of attracting attention.

“It's the people who count,” says Grätsch, emphasizing that it is time to regain citizens' trust in politics. The city, which is considered one of the oldest in Bavaria and has an eventful history, should once again be a place that the people of Schweinfurt can be proud of. They will be able to actively shape municipal life, including through the introduction of a citizens' forum. This forum is intended to enable citizens to participate in important decisions and to contribute their opinions.

Citizen participation in focus

The topic of citizen participation is becoming increasingly important, and not just in Schweinfurt. Many citizens often feel powerless and distanced from political decisions. To counteract this, Grätsch wants to ensure that every Schweinfurt resident has a say. According to an analysis, citizen participation is promoted through various forms such as citizens' meetings and online platforms. These tools enable citizens to actively participate in the decision-making processes and to voice their concerns ([denkenpolitik.de](https://denkenpolitik.de/die-befühl-von-buerger participation-in-der-kommunalpolitik-opportunities-und-chauschungen/)).

“We need a vibrant democracy that takes citizens’ opinions and needs seriously,” continued Grätsch. She is convinced that greater involvement of citizens not only increases the transparency of political processes, but also strengthens the sense of community. The goal is to regain lost trust and create a positive view of the city.

Schweinfurt through the ages

Schweinfurt, with around 100,200 inhabitants, has changed significantly over the course of its 1,200-year history. The city was formerly a Free Imperial City and is now an important center of industry with a high employment density. Important companies such as *SKF*, *Schaeffler* and *ZF Friedrichshafen* are based here. This economic foundation must also be reflected in politics in order to make the city future-oriented (wikipedia).

Additionally, Schweinfurt's history, from heavy air raids in World War II to its return to prosperity following the withdrawal of U.S. forces in 2014, can serve as a lesson in how times of change can also bring opportunity. Grätsch wants citizens to not only see the history of their city as the past, but to actively help shape its future. “We are part of this history and it must continue to be written,” she says.

With her humorous videos, she has not only won the hearts of Schweinfurt residents, but is now also showing her thoughtful side, which aims to encourage people to think about their city and its future. The coming months should be exciting as Grätsch continues to develop and implement her vision for Schweinfurt.