Centre
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No affiliated group in the European Parliament
The 'Independents for Citizen-Oriented Democracy' (short name: INDEPENDENTS) are a small German party that advocates for independent individual candidates and direct democracy. Founded in 2002 in Kaufbeuren, its focus is on citizen participation through popular initiatives and referendums at the federal level. The party supports citizens in candidacies for political offices, with the respective election programs determined by the candidates themselves.
Foundation and Development of the INDEPENDENTS
Foundation and Development of the INDEPENDENTS
The 'Independents for Citizen-Oriented Democracy' were founded on September 9, 2002, in Kaufbeuren, where its headquarters are still located today. In 2004, the party integrated the 'citizen makes politics' (bmp.) founded in 2002 and the citizens' initiative 'citizens to citizens.de', resulting in state associations in North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Württemberg. Originally founded as 'Action Independent Candidates', it was renamed in 2004 to 'INDEPENDENT CANDIDATES ... for Direct Democracy + Citizen-Oriented Solutions' and finally in the spring of 2005 to the current name.
Goals and Political Orientation
Goals and Political Orientation
The INDEPENDENTS advocate for the promotion of independent individual candidates and the strengthening of direct democracy. A central concern is the introduction of popular initiatives and referendums at the federal level, based on an improved Bavarian model. The party strives for the improvement of democratic structures and state regulations, and supports citizens in their candidacy for political offices. Notably, the election programs are not determined by the party, but by the individual candidates themselves.
Election Results and Political Presence
Election Results and Political Presence
The INDEPENDENTS are active as a small party in Germany and have not achieved significant electoral successes so far. Their political presence is therefore rather low, and they play a subordinate role in the nationwide political landscape. Nevertheless, they remain a platform for citizens who want to engage in direct democracy and independent candidacies.