Leon Dönch

Nationality: German

Member Association past two years: Volt Germany + Volt Austria

Gender: Male

What do you see as the most urgent democratic challenge facing Volt Europa's mission across the continent, and how would you lead the organisation's response? 

Among the multifaceted issues currently facing Europe, I consider the following to be particularly urgent:

- The rise of right-wing populist parties that offer supposedly simple solutions to complex problems. We must respond by providing real and progressive solutions and clearly distinguishing ourselves from them in terms of policy.

- Demographic change is leading to high costs for long-term care and pensions. On the other hand, young people are struggling to find affordable housing in cities. We must explore how to redistribute wealth (not income) to resolve this imbalance. 

How would you handle a public disagreement with your Co-President on a matter of political strategy? 

Differing opinions are a sign of a vibrant democracy and do not pose a problem for me. What is important is to present a united front to the public and our members that they can trust. In the event of a disagreement, I would involve the other non-executive board members as advisors and work together to reach a compromise.

My goal is a leadership culture based on collaboration rather than individual egos.

In what way will you ensure the European Board remains accountable to local volunteers and members in practice? Please give 2–3 specific mechanisms. 

To me, accountability means not losing touch with our members. Since I come directly from the grassroots, I am well aware of their needs and will take them into account in my role as co-president.

I want to establish effective two-way communication channels: on the one hand, by visiting the chapters and actively seeking feedback, and on the other hand, by creating opportunities for individual members’ wishes to reach us.

Because transparency regarding the decisions made is important, I would like to set up a Haiilo board where members can subscribe to these announcements.