Dear readers,

In my capacity of Lord Mayor of the City of Dessau-Roßlau, I heartily welcome you in our city. To facilitate your arrival and to help you to orientate yourselves in Dessau-Roßlau, we like to give you some first assistance by this Welcome Guide. How to properly dispose of domestic waste? What night rest times have to be respected? How shall a flat be returned to the landlord in compliance with the tenancy agreement? You will find answers and important facts regarding all such questions of everyday life on the following pages. Contact data and opening hours of all relevant partners can be found in the annex.
At the same we like to familiarize you with the basic rights and rules of our society that have to be complied with and accepted. In this respect, we refer to our democratic order and the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany. Its first Article reads: "The dignity of men is inviolable". Our social cohabitation is based on this principle.  Men and women have the same rights, both have the right to vote in elections, both shall have the same professional chances in life. However, this does not only apply to the status of man and woman. Article three  stipulates that no one shall be discriminated or favoured, independently of his/her origin, race, language, homeland and country of orgin, belief or political opinion. Religious tolerance is another cornerstone of our cohabitation.

All this exemplarily quoted basic rights and rules have to be respected and filled with life. They are the foundation of our free social cohabitation. Thus do not hesitate and contact the competent authorities and organizations so that we can give you advice and support.

Please enjoy the study of this guide. I would appreciate your active participation in the social cohabitation in our city.

Cordially, Your Peter Kuras