ZDA ANNUAL REPORT 2010 - Zentrum für Demokratie Aarau

Annual Report ZDA 2010The second main feature of the ZDA is its specific relationship with the region ofAarau/Aargau. No other academic research institute in the world can probably boast to havesuch a close connection with local and regional state bodies, a connection that stems from itsdemocratically legitimized funding by these bodies. This raises specific expectations amongthe public and the authorities which the ZDA must take into account, within the limits ofacademic freedom and pre-eminence of scientific research that are not negotiable. Tensionson both sides – here a sometimes adversely perceived presence at local events, there a fear ofinadequate availability for regional concerns – cannot be avoided, but should be reduced bymutual understanding. The Friends of the ZDA have come to play an indispensable role indealing with the tension between global and local, science and politics, trust and distrust.Strengthened by these two assets the ZDA has managed in short time to be recognizednationally and internationally as a scientific reference point in democracy issues that isincreasingly difficult to bypass. This is witnessed namely by the increasing number of visitingresearchers at the Blumenhalde, the strong attention which give the media to our activities, thefrequent involvement of collaborators in expert committees, the growing number of requestsfor legal opinions, evaluations and surveys, the multiplication of official visitors of the ZDA.One can say that through the ZDA, the terms "Aarau" and "democracy" become more andmore associated.The ZDA has much achieved and more in mind. It has not yet reached its destination, but it ison its way.Aarau, 10 February 2011Andreas Auer2