Die LandFrauenorganisationen und ihr lokales Engagement im Spiegel der Regionalentwicklung

Abstract

This article highlights the societal relevance of the German Country Women’s Associations (LandFrauen) as an element of German civil society especially in rural regions. On the basis of qualitative expert interviews and secondary material, this article provides an overview of the LandFrauen as civil society organizations and as a subject of social scientific research. German Country Women’s Associations are represented throughout Germany with approximately 450,000 members in over 10,600 local associations, district associations, regional associations and a federal association. They represent, among other activities, the interests of women, are important providers of adult education and act as an organizational framework for the activities and civic engagement of their members, particularly at local community level. The article concludes that the LandFrauen contribute significantly to the local social and cultural infrastructure in rural areas. Concurrently, they are partners within coordinated regional development activities and stand in relation to the local economy. Additionally, this article presents perspectives for further scientific exploration with regard to the embedding of civic engagement into civil society organizations, geographies of engagement, regional governance and public goods. Therefore, this contribution lays the foundation for further research.