Urban Development Project: Introducing the New Settlement
In the heart of Dresden, the lively district of Neustadt is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and diverse community. However, with this comes the occasional challenges of noise and alcohol-related issues. To address these concerns, a volunteer initiative known as the Night Watchers (Nachtwächter) have taken on the role of a de-escalation team, ensuring public safety without direct law enforcement involvement.
During the annual Kiez Days event, which celebrates the local culture of Neustadt with music, food, and art, the Night Watchers play a critical role in maintaining calm and preventing escalation of conflicts. The event, taking place on October 1st and 2nd, is a time when the district's spirit is at its most exuberant, and the Night Watchers are there to balance this energy with the need for public order and quality of life for residents.
The Night Watchers are present throughout the year, working mainly during evening and nighttime hours. They are trained volunteers who intervene peacefully, mediating conflicts, helping intoxicated people, and preventing violence. Their approach focuses on non-police intervention, with emphasis on communication and empathy to manage challenging situations.
This year, the Kiez Days program includes free concerts starting at 5 PM on Monday, featuring Mias ZK, Kollege Hartmann, and Morlockk Dilemma. On Sunday, the event will take place at Alaunpark, starting at 2 PM, with live graffiti painting, breakdancing, a clothing swap market, and a crafting street also part of the day's activities.
The Night Watchers will also be introducing people to their communication team and its work during the event. The event marks the closing of the season for the local de-escalation team, and they are eager to engage with residents and guests of Neustadt, fostering a safer environment for all.
The Night Watchers, under the guidance of District Administrator André Barth, aim to promote respectful behavior in Neustadt, with their work aimed at creating a higher threshold for inappropriate and criminal behavior. Their strategy involves a 'de-anonymization' process, which helps them to build trust within the community and effectively manage situations as they arise.
Their work is widely appreciated for fostering community trust and reducing the burden on police resources. The Night Watchers are a testament to the power of community-led initiatives in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all. On October 1st and 2nd, as the Kiez Days take center stage, the Night Watchers will once again be there, ensuring that the spirit of Neustadt shines brightly while maintaining a harmonious and safe atmosphere for all to enjoy.
On Monday, the celebration moves to Scheune.
During the Kiez Days event, the Night Watchers play a significant role in maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, particularly during the concerts featuring Mias ZK, Kollege Hartmann, and Morlockk Dilemma, which start at 5 PM on Monday. Their presence is also felt at Alaunpark on Sunday, where they contribute to the festivities that include live graffiti painting, breakdancing, a clothing swap market, and a crafting street. On these days, the Night Watchers will also be sharing information about their communication team and work, as they strive to promote a home-and-garden lifestyle in the heart of Neustadt, focusing on respectful behavior and ensuring a safe lifestyle for the community.
