This year’s retreat at Schwielowsee lake focused on “Open Government” issues.
Within the framework of the Hertie School’s 10 year birthday, EMPM alumni and students are looking forward to a unique celebration in the form of a retreat that will take place from 23 – 25 May in Caputh, a scenic village in Brandenburg (about 1 hour from Berlin).
This year’s EMPM retreat will focus on “Open Government” issues: Internet and Social Media change the world and even governments start to explore new ways of public participation in political decision-making processes. “Open Government” seems to be on the top of political agendas which focus more often now on fostering basic democracy elements as means of decision-making or at least building a public opinion. But the existence of digital media and web 2.0-based technologies as well as an ever-growing and more and more political net-community doesn’t automatically guarantee transparency, participation and cooperation. Cultural change in the public as well as in public administration may be required to make good use of these new instruments.
Almost 40 people have signed up so far for the retreat, which will include a joint dinner, discussions and guest speaker talks. There will also be a social programme on and near the Schwielowsee lake with plenty of time for socialising and networking.