Public Day Opens at German Prevention Congress 2026 in Hannover

The second day of the 31st German Prevention Congress is now open to the general public, offering residents of Hannover and surrounding areas free access to a comprehensive program focused on crime prevention and community safety.

Free Admission at Hannover Congress Centrum

From 9 AM to 4 PM, visitors can enter the Hannover Congress Centrum (HCC) without charge. The main highlight of the day is the Security Conference titled "Prevention Capital Hannover," where the city aims to engage proactively with citizens on topics including safety, civil courage, violence prevention, racism, diversity, and respect. Interested attendees can check in at the HCC entrance and receive free access to the large accompanying exhibition in Eilenriedehalle A as well as outdoor areas.

Security Conference Schedule

The Security Conference runs from 10 AM to 2:15 PM in Niedersachsenhalle B. The program begins with welcome addresses by Lord Mayor Belit Onay and First City Councilor and Head of Public Order Dr. Axel von der Ohe. Following the opening remarks, Hannover poetry slammer Antonia Josefa (@katzenknoten) will perform.

Jurist, psychologist, and trainer Aurel Schwarz delivers an keynote lecture on "Civil Courage, Violence Prevention, and De-escalation," focusing on actionable examples that can be directly implemented in practice. At 12:30 PM, a panel discussion titled "How Does Safety Feeling Stand in Hannover?" will feature Dr. Axel von der Ohe, City Equality Commissioner Luisa Arndt, Police Vice President Stefan Sengel, Katharina Sterzer (Managing Director of Asphalt), and Dr. Hamideh Moghagheghi from the Council of Religions in Hannover.

Musical and Cultural Highlights

The conference includes music, poetry slam performances, and dialogue stations for exchange. A particular highlight is the appearance by former Monrose singer Bahar Kizil, who will contribute socially critical pieces to the musical portion of the event.

Strengthening Community Exchange

This Security Conference marks the first time such an event has been held at the German Prevention Congress. Its goal is to strengthen dialogue between citizens from Hannover and the region, professional visitors, and the city administration. Young audiences are also encouraged to attend, including as part of school trips. The conference was conceived by Sinem Eryurt-Celik and Thea Giebl, Managing Directors of the Center for Municipal Crime Prevention (ZKK).

Exhibition Features Around 100 Institutions

The accompanying exhibition in Eilenriedehalle A is open continuously from 9 AM to 4 PM on Tuesday. Approximately 100 institutions provide information on various aspects of prevention. Special exhibitions address topics including catcalling, prison culture, and domestic violence prevention (Rosenweg 76). 

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