Imagine a world where the economy works for everyone. That’s the vision driving the Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie. This organization is located here in Leipzig. It is dedicated to creating a more just and sustainable economic system.
Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie is more than just an organization. It is a laboratory for new economic ideas. Founded in 2012, it is approaching its ten-year anniversary. It is committed to promoting ecological, social, and democratic principles in economics.
The Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie sees itself as part of a movement. This movement searches for many ways to improve the economy. The necessary changes mean a reorientation of our ways of living. The group combines education, social movements, alternative economic practices and science.
Here at Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie, about 25 people work towards this goal. They believe the economy should enable a good life for all. The current system falls short. It is undemocratic, unstable, and creates inequality. It generates riches for a few. It causes exclusion and poverty for many. Environmental destruction makes these injustices worse. It threatens our very livelihoods.
Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie challenges the dominant focus on economic growth. They advocate for cooperation over competition. The organization recognizes the power imbalances that allow a few to control the economy. These few prioritize their interests over the needs of the majority.
To counter these injustices, the Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie champions a deep social-ecological transformation. Political education is vital for this transformation. They offer workshops, seminars, and training programs. They also develop educational materials and host conferences. These events tackle topics often overlooked. These topics include the critique of growth. They also focus on alternatives to capitalism.
The Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie encourages participants to confront big questions. What are the reasons for social injustice and ecological destruction? What would an economy look like that prioritizes human needs? What economy cares for each other and respects ecological boundaries? What are the obstacles and first steps towards such a system?
The organization connects different stakeholders. It creates alliances and develops joint projects. Changing the economy requires cooperation from diverse people and organizations. Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie strengthens change from below. It collaborates with social movements. The group believes this is the foundation for widespread change.
Their educational work aims to get people interested in economic matters. They analyze economic, ecological, and social developments. They demonstrate that alternative economic practices already exist. These can be starting points for a broader transformation.
The Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie serves as informed speakers. They address alternative economic concepts. They are available for journalists and policymakers. They combine concepts from civil society and the scientific community.
The Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie is an example of a new economy. They organize using grassroots democracy. They use few resources. They share all their publications free of charge.
Here at Klingenstraße 22, the Konzeptwerk Neue Ökonomie is working. They strive for a future where the economy serves people and the planet.