Politics in the classroom: MV votes on school law!

Politics in the classroom: MV votes on school law!

Civic education in schools: A hotly debated topic

Political education in our schools is gaining momentum, especially before the upcoming state elections in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. In January 2026, the state parliament will decide on the inclusion of the Beutelsbach Consensus in the school law, a topic that concerns not only educators, but also society as a whole. The Bechersbach Consensus, created in 1976 in Hülsesbach, is an important didactic guideline that is intended to ensure that students are not taken by surprise but can form their own opinions. This reports ndr.de.

At the same time, the AfD, which is critical of possible indoctrination in the classroom, is calling for a reduction in political lessons in favor of scientific subjects. The party is of the opinion that overloading with political issues is not in the interests of the students. The focus here is on protecting children and young people from one-sided opinion formation.

The Sachesbach Consensus: Principles of Civic Education

The basic principles of the Beutelsbach Consensus are clearly defined and form the framework for political education in schools. On the one hand, there is the ban on overwhelm, which ensures that students are not influenced unprepared for certain opinions. Student orientation is also a central aspect that is intended to promote independent opinion formation. And last but not least, the controversial requirement is important: different opinions must be presented in class so that a balanced discussion can take place. Loud bpb.de This consensus is a central element of political education in Germany.

A significant supporter of this school reform is Dr. Gudrun Heinrich, who sees the amendment to the law as a “milestone” for the democracy-building task of schools. She emphasizes the importance of the values ​​of the Basic Law and the responsibility of teachers not to violate the required principles. The GEW sees this as an opportunity to strengthen teachers, especially in dealing with right-wing extremist incidents.

The context of the discussion

The Bechersbach Consensus emerged in the 1970s during intensive discussions about political education. At that time, Hans-Georg Wehling formulated the central points that are still very relevant today. Civic education should not only promote critical thinking, but also the ability to analyze one's own interests and find ways to represent them. This vision is being revitalized by the current school policy discourse in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

In addition, East German student representatives have already brought their demands for more political education to state politics. This youth voice is essential as they are directly affected by the effects of such a change in the law and bring valuable perspectives.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the state parliament will decide next year. The discussion about political education in schools is far from over and will continue to help shape school lessons in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. It is now up to the legislators to have a good hand and set the course for a balanced, democratic education.