(SMS) Studio Michael Schmitz
The project Antidemokratie getarnt als politische Bildung investigates how right-wing actors disguise propaganda as neutral civic education. By uncovering these manipulative strategies, the publication and campaign equip educators, institutions, and the wider public with tools to strengthen democratic culture.
Client: Fachstelle Bildungsallianzen gegen rechte Ideologien der Heinrich Böll-Landesstiftungen, Heinrich Böll Stiftung Rheinland-Pfalz
Right-wing groups strategically embed extremist ideas in formats that appear like legitimate civic education. This creates confusion and makes it difficult for educators and policymakers to distinguish between democratic and anti-democratic content. The challenge was to present complex research findings in a way that is both clear and accessible, while retaining their depth and urgency.
Structuring dense, research-based content into formats that are readable, visually compelling, and suitable for professional use.
Using clarity and transparency in design to highlight hidden manipulative mechanisms and expose their strategies.
Targeted outputs for educators, policymakers, and the wider public, designed to foster democratic literacy and resilience against extremist rhetoric.
The project resulted in a widely discussed publication and communication campaign that equips educators and institutions with tools to recognize and counteract anti-democratic strategies. It contributes to safeguarding democratic culture in the educational field and strengthens awareness of manipulative practices.
Educational card game addressing censorship, democracy, and freedom of expression. → See project
Publication documenting sustainable approaches to corporate clothing in public service. → See project
Exploration of the broader social and political role of communication design beyond aesthetics. → See project