How can democracy be experienced in everyday life? Our new Grantee, metro_polis e.V. initiates conversations among passengers on trams — while they are traveling. In spaces where people usually sit in silence, the organization facilitates discussions on socially relevant topics. Passengers share their experiences, exchange perspectives, and jointly develop ideas for social coexistence.

The name »metro_polis« combines métro (tram) and pólis (urban society) — and these two elements shape the project. The conversations are low-threshold, spontaneous, and require no prior knowledge. Especially people who often hold back in conventional participation formats or feel politically excluded are given the chance to contribute their perspectives. Guided by metro_polis teams, passengers discuss socio-political questions, develop suggestions, and provide direct input for local administration and politics. The goal is not only to foster interaction among people but also to create a bridge between everyday experiences and municipal decision-making processes.

Afterwards, the metro_polis team evaluates the collective mood, experiences, and suggestions from the conversations and compiles them in a project report for politics and administration. Decision-makers gain immediate, authentic insights into the realities of life, needs, concerns, and priorities of people on the ground. The city of Dresden has repeatedly collaborated with metro_polis, commissioning them to discuss specific questions with passengers — for example, proposals for urban heating planning.