Wahlheymat:
Redefining Belonging in Berlin Through
Inclusivity
Believing that inclusivity is the cornerstone of coexistence, celebration, and the recognition of diverse cultural identities, traditions, and values within a single society, we enthusiastically launched Wahlheymat in the heart of Berlin to bring this vision to life.

Launched on the International Day of Democracy, September 15, 2023, Wahlheymat embodies a bold and inclusive vision for Berlin—a city that not only acknowledges but also actively celebrates its diversity. Wahlheymat brings together native Berliners, German citizens from across the country, and newcomers, all united by the shared goal of shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for the city.
The key to this future is to activate the newcomers living in Berlin (one third of the population ) into political, public, social life. To co-create new structures, co-own them, that everyone can feel belonging.
More than just a movement, Wahlheymat is a Berlin-based, community-driven grassroots initiative with a mission to transform Berlin into a vibrant, multicultural city that warmly welcomes foreigners. By fostering coexistence between German citizens and international residents, Wahlheymat seeks to create an atmosphere where diversity is celebrated and unity is achieved through:
- Inclusion and Equality: Ensuring that all cultural groups have the right to express themselves and participate equally in societal, political, and economic life.
- Mutual Respect: Promoting understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures while actively working to reduce prejudice through dialogue and education.
- Social Integration Without Assimilation: Creating a shared sense of belonging while empowering individuals and communities to maintain their distinct cultural practices and traditions.
The Reality We Face
Berlin is already a global city, with one-third of its residents born abroad. Yet, a staggering 25% of its population—nearly one million people—lack the right to vote at the city level. By 2035, nearly half of Berlin’s population will be international. Despite this growing diversity, anti-migrant sentiments are on the rise, and Berlin’s political systems have yet to fully adapt to the complexities of its shifting demographics.
Wahlheymat is about reimagining democracy itself. It envisions systems that transcend traditional notions of citizenship, embrace digital innovations, and address the needs of an evolving, globalized community.
Our Mission
At Wahlheymat, our mission is to activate and empower Berlin’s newcomers, who already make up one-third of the city’s population, and invite them to take an active role in political, social, and public life. Together, we aim to co-create and co-own structures that foster true belonging—where every voice is heard, valued, and instrumental in shaping Berlin’s future.
Why Wahlheymat Matters
Berlin has always been a city of reinvention, a place where walls have fallen, systems have transformed, and history has been rewritten. Wahlheymat seeks to write Berlin’s next chapter—a chapter defined by inclusion, equality, and shared purpose. In a city that represents over 190 nationalities, Wahlheymat envisions a mosaic of tolerance, resilience, and vibrant voices coming together to build a democracy that works for everyone.
Our Motto:
“Because Democracy matter, and it belongs to everyone.”