for a Jewish-German future
8-10 November 2026
You don’t just want to observe politics, but to understand it, help shape it and get involved effectively? Then the Young Leadership Seminar „Politisches Berlin“ is exactly right for you.
Since 2021, WerteInitiative – jüdisch-deutsche Positionen (WI) has been inviting young adults to Berlin who are interested in democracy, political education and civic engagement from a Jewish-German perspective. This year too, our leadership seminar for young talent gives you the chance to experience politics where it is made: in the heart of Berlin.
You can look forward to direct encounters with members of the Bundestag from various parliamentary groups, workshops on political engagement and communication, as well as fascinating insights into political processes, strategies and decision-making paths. This turns the abstract image of „politics“ into tangible reality. You will learn first-hand how political work really functions, which skills you need for it and how you can find your own path in politics or activism.
Our aim is clear: we want to encourage you to engage politically over the long term, to take responsibility and, together with others, to build a strong network for exchange, cooperation and shaping a Jewish-German future.Application deadline: 1.10.2026In cooperation with:
Why should you take part?
Jews in Germany are still significantly under-represented in politics. Together with the Jüdische Studierendenunion Deutschland (JSUD, Jewish Student Union of Germany), this leadership seminar therefore campaigns for greater political participation – by Jewish people and by people who feel connected to Jewish-German issues. You will have the opportunity to meet federal politicians and political actors, to ask them about their personal political paths and to understand better how politics in Germany actually works. How do you find your way around this system? And what could your own path look like? At the same time, the seminar shows you how closely Jewish-German issues are bound up with the cornerstones of a free and democratic society. The direct exchange is valuable for the participating politicians too: they learn at first hand what moves Jewish people in Germany and voices in solidarity with them.
Who can apply?
The seminar is aimed at young, politically interested people aged 18 and over living in Germany. A prerequisite for your participation is that you have a clear connection to Jewish participation, Jewish engagement or a sustained involvement with Jewish-German issues.
How do you apply?
Send us your CV and a compelling letter of motivation of no more than 2 pages to:
politisches.forum@werteinitiative.de
Please also describe in it your connection to the topics mentioned above. As the number of places is limited, it is worth applying early. The closing date for submissions is 01.10.2026. If you have any questions, you can contact us by email at any time. We will send out acceptances and rejections by 15.10.2026. We look forward to your application!
Costs
Participation in the seminar is free of charge. Accommodation and meals are included. Your travel costs will be reimbursed in accordance with the Bundesreisekostengesetz (German Federal Travel Expenses Act).
What awaits you?
Look forward to a varied and demanding 3-day programme offering you political practice, personal encounters and valuable impulses for your own engagement. You can expect a mixture of discussion rounds with political professionals, visits to Bundestag parliamentary groups and embassies, panel discussions, hands-on workshops as well as exchange and networking with the other participants. You will receive all further information with your confirmation of participation
