Responsible Leadership

A polity organized on democratic and market principles, where the citizens vote, work, and pay their taxes and where public administrations redistribute or invest these taxes in public goods and services works - like a machine, one might be tempted to add. However, a civil society that aims at fostering solidarity and social innovation becomes a living organism only when its citizens make voluntary contributions that go beyond their obligation to pay taxes. A polity will only be livable, socially and culturally diverse, and sustainable if a large number of people get involved in civic life above and beyond their duties as citizens, their professional responsibilities and their personal interests.

With its Young Leaders forums and programs, the BMW Stiftung Herbert Quandt encourages young leaders in particular to invest their time, skills and experiences outside of their working environment into projects and activities that are oriented to the common good, thus promoting the polity's long-term development and innovation.