Basic Program of the
Ecological Democratic Party (ödp)

In the Ecological Democratic Party (ödp), people unite in their work to face the crucial challenge of our time: the global crisis with its ecological, economic, social, cultural, and ethical aspects.

Neither resignation nor superficial optimism is appropriate in this situation. Instead, we see in the crisis our opportunity to create a new and positive way of dealing with nature and our fellow creatures, and to restructure the rules of human social life. In this process we take the problems by their roots. With integral thinking and joint action we implement responsible solutions and develop visions for a long-term “life-friendly” world.

We are living in an era of unlimited delusions about our abilities. Everything seems possible, every-thing justifiable. It is frequently economical reasons rather than ethical principles that decide our ac-tions. But the principle of “always farther, always higher, always faster” is increasingly backfiring on us.

Fast consumption of non-renewable resources, over-exertion and damage of the global eco-systems, disturbance and destruction of important plant and animal habitats with a consequent loss of species, emission of huge amounts of pollutants into soil, water, and atmosphere - all these are the results of the current prosperity model, which is biased towards material consumption. Starting from the rich, industrialized countries, this model is becoming a dangerous role model for an increasing number of people.

This seeming prosperity in the industrialized countries is accompanied by a growing destitution and misery of many people in the so-called Third World. Social and economical injustice, a lack of educa-tional opportunities, and structurally undesirable developments further exacerbate the vicious circle of poverty, hunger, and increase in population, and force many to destroy their natural living environ-ment or to flee from their homeland.

But also in the economically strong countries, grave social crises are developing. More and more peo-ple live in fear of loosing their jobs, or their social security. Many are already living under the bread-line. History teaches us that social insecurity can lead to support for authoritarian political tendencies, and thus endanger tolerance, democracy, and respect for human rights.

In addition, there are growing signs of an extensive civilization crisis. Many people feel uneasy in view of the increasingly accelerating and far-reaching developments. They feel they are at the mercy of a strong process of concentration in economy, administrations, educational establishments, etc. Ever more complex structures promote a sense of anonymity, and a feeling of no longer being able to par-ticipate in and organize the course of events. Moreover, in the presence of multiple problems, dangers, and overload in a society going through a rapid change of moral values, a sense of crisis and disorien-tation develops: The flight into superficial distractions, questionable leisure-time amusements, and consumption of drugs increases. The search for orientation frequently leads to religious sects con-temptuous of mankind and false messages of salvation, and to extreme nationalism. In addition to that, a loss in public spirit and the increasing spread of the principle of elbowing others out are clearly recognizable.

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