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07. 08. 12. - 16:01
Kids get chance to run their own city
Vienna's kids this week have the opportunity to rule their city as part of the 'Rein ins Rathaus' project - a chance to get inside Vienna's City Hall.
The kids week encourages children to set up their own city, make and stick to their own rules, carry out votes, make money and pay taxes.
The aim is to give children an insight into the requirements and duties of adults.
Each child has the opportunity to get a role in the 'new city' - they pick a job of their choice, are paid a 'salary' and are taxed on it.
Their salary in the form of 'Holli-Cents' is taxed - they can then use the money in the shops and the other establishments in the Children's City.
Children even have the opportunity to play the role of a politician. To get this role you must have carried out three different jobs and completed two studies at the kid's university.
If you fulfil these criteria you can then take part in the vote to become mayor every afternoon.
Everyday at 15.00 the votes close and then it is revealed who will rule in the children's city hall the next day.
A newspaper and tv reports are made on the decisions by the children to keep everyone informed. Budding reporters have the opportunity to go to interviews with 'real' politicians such as Maria Vassilakou, Sonja Wehsely and Ulli Sima.
The project is part of a scheme to encourage children's understanding of democracy in a creative way.
No registration is necessary. Children need to turn up get themselves a passport and their 'money' which can be used in the kid's city.
The programme runs form 6th to 11th of August for children aged 6 to 13 years old. Entrance is free.
