35 years state parliament NRW

The NRW state parliament was officially inaugurated on October 2, 1988. It is now celebrating its 35th anniversary. A long parliamentary night was held to mark the anniversary, attracting 4,500 visitors to the Rhine. The cultural program was diverse, with guests including saxophonist Lennart Allkemper, soul musician BB Thomaz and Japanese magician Yuta Maruyama. A constant feature of the state parliament are the parliamentary talks, which were initiated in 2018 by André Kuper, President of the NRW state parliament, and have already hosted public figures such as Ulrich Wickert, Dunja Hayali and Joachim Gauck. The topics range from anti-Semitism to the future of federalism and hate speech on social media. We asked André Kuper three questions about the state parliament and Düsseldorf.

Mr Kuper, what makes the state parliament stand out architecturally?
The state parliament is the symbol of democracy in North Rhine-Westphalia. With a view of the Rhine, Old Town and Medienhafen, it is located in the center of Düsseldorf. It is therefore a central part of the cultural and political life of the state capital. The building with its round shapes set standards for parliamentary buildings 35 years ago: The MPs wanted a round plenary chamber - everyone should be able to look at everyone else during the debate. This is a masterpiece by the architects Eller and Eller and an architectural expression of democracy. All the parliamentary rooms are arranged around the plenary chamber: Parliamentary group headquarters, MPs' offices and committee rooms. The architects Eller and Eller have translated another characteristic of democracy into stone: transparency. Lots of glass on the façades and at the entrance symbolizes the fact that citizens can observe parliamentary events and political decisions. The sovereign watches the elected representatives at work and experiences democracy live. We have also launched many programs and events to bring democracy to life. At our recent Parliament Night, more than 4,500 people from all over the country experienced the House in a special atmosphere. Democracy must be lived and experienced.

What offers are there for visitors to the NRW state parliament?
We offer visitors many opportunities to experience the state parliament. It is possible to follow plenary and committee meetings live. Once a month, the state parliament is open to visitors on Sundays. There are also special offers for children, young people, refugees and trainees. Anyone interested in visiting the state parliament can find all the information online. In addition to the visitor programs, you can also experience Parliament in a very special atmosphere during the Night of the Museums, World Children's Day or Parliament Night.

Outside of the state parliament, what is your favorite place in Düsseldorf?
Jogging along the banks of the Rhine early in the morning is a special experience - as is swimming in the "Rheinblick 741" swimming pool.

More information about visiting the state parliament at landtag.nrw.de.

Interview: Cynthia Blasberg
Photos: Press