The Strength of Civil Society in Eastern Germany: A Case-Study of Voluntary Associations in Leipzig.

This paper examines the role of voluntary associations in the East German city of Leipzig in order to assess the strength of post-communist civil society. Due to structures put in place by the city government to encourage citizen input in policy decision and relatively widespread democratic participation before and after the fall of communism, Leipzig presents an interesting case-study in assessing the vibrancy of civil society, and thus democracy, in a post-communist city that appears to embrace ideals of democratic participation. It focuses on how environmental and citizens' associations contribute to city development policy, such as preserving historic buildings, repairing the infrastructure and creating green spaces. Utilizing data from 35 qualitative interviews with members of these associations, local parliamentarians and city officials, the paper addresses theories about the role that voluntary associations play in strengthening city society. Based on the theoretical literature, it analyzes the extent to which associations are able to develop civic competence among members, create city-wide civic networks that allow cooperation in pursuing political goals, and influence policy decisions. ..PAT.-Unpublished Manuscript [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]