Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the President of Germany, warned in his latest speech on the occasion of German Unity Day about new threats that have put pressure on the democracy of this country. In this speech, held at an official ceremony in Bremen, Steinmeier referred to three decades of political changes in Germany and expressed concern that some supporters of right-wing extremism are seeking to forget the memory of the Holocaust victims.
New Challenges for Democracy
Steinmeier, who is nearing the end of his second and final term as President, said: "I thought everyone had learned from history, and now I see that our democracy is once again under challenge." He added that his expectations after the changes of 1989 had been greater than what has actually materialized, stating that these expectations included further progress in liberal democracy and international cooperation.
He also reminded that the challenges to maintain social cohesion and national unity will increase in the coming years. As President, Steinmeier plays an important role in voicing national sentiments, and on special days like German Unity Day, this role becomes particularly prominent.
Celebrations of German Unity Day
The celebrations of German Unity Day began on Saturday with a religious ceremony at St. Peter's Cathedral in Bremen, attended by Steinmeier, Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and other high-ranking officials. More than 550 events are being held in Bremen to commemorate the 36th anniversary of German Unity, and these celebrations are alternately held in 16 states of Germany.
It is expected that over 400,000 people will participate in the public festival in Bremen, which continues until Sunday. This festival will include free concerts, discussions, guided tours, and exhibitions. The slogan of this festival is "Many Strengths - One Country."
As Germany continues its celebration of Unity Day, attention is drawn to the selection of Steinmeier's successor in January. Elisabeth Kaiser, the German government's commissioner for the east of the country, has called for the next president to be elected from East Germany and emphasized the need for greater representation of Easterners in high offices of the country.
She said: "These differences must be addressed to complete the true unity of Germany." Steinmeier, whose presidential term ends in March 2027, also recalls Joachim Gauck, the only president from East Germany, who served in this position from 2012 to 2017.
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