‘Our Democracy’ crowned Alternative Non-Word of the Year in public poll
The weekly newspaper Junge Freiheit has announced the results of its public poll for the Alternative Non-Word of the Year 2025. Over 70,000 people took part in the online survey, selecting terms they considered overused or misleading. The phrase 'Our Democracy' won by a wide margin, receiving nearly half of all votes cast.
This marks the second year that Junge Freiheit has run the poll as a response to the official 'Non-Word of the Year' selection. Editor-in-chief Dieter Stein highlighted the strong public engagement, calling it proof of demand for an alternative to the traditional list. He argued that the official choices often feel arbitrary, while the newspaper’s survey reflects broader public opinion.
The top five terms in this year’s poll were clear. 'Our Democracy' secured first place with 45.18% of the votes. 'Special Fund' followed in second with 16.75%, and 'Non-Governmental Organizations' took third at 11.55%. 'Winter Market' and 'Civil Society' rounded out the list, receiving 10.66% and 6.33% respectively. Last year’s winner, 'Firewall', had also emerged from a similar public vote. The newspaper’s initiative continues to gain traction, with participation growing each year.
The results show a clear preference among voters for terms they see as politically charged or overused. 'Our Democracy' now joins the list of past winners, including 2024’s 'Firewall'. The poll’s organisers have indicated they will continue the tradition, giving the public a direct role in shaping the debate around language and media.
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