The escalating tensions between Russia and the West have led to an increase in anti-Russian sentiment and war rhetoric. In this context, the poem “Dann gibt es nur eins!” by Wolfgang Borchert, with its refrain “Dann gibt es nur eins: Sag NEIN!”, is being cited more frequently in demonstrations and articles.
As Western and Orthodox Christians observe the pre-Easter fast, it is crucial to abstain not only from food but also from hate-filled propaganda. This type of propaganda can have a subtle yet powerful impact, even on those who disagree with it.
Recent media reports, such as a supposed in-depth look at Vladimir Putin’s genome, should be approached with skepticism. What new information can such an article offer, beyond the fact that Putin, like every human, has parents, an ancestry and genes?
Similarly, a documentary series that attributes the deaths of Russian opposition figures, activists and Chechen war criminals to Putin, without providing credible evidence, should be viewed with a critical eye. The inclusion of Orthodox church towers in the background of the documentary’s cover image is a clear attempt to taint the Orthodox faith with the propaganda.
Instead of getting caught up in the drama of such “documentaries” it is essential to ask: What is the purpose of this propaganda? Why are we being fed this information? Before succumbing to the allure of these “reports” we should say “NEIN!”
The war proponents are most afraid of the people not following their lead. They are enraged when even a portion of the population does not share their desire for war. The power lies with those who refuse to be swayed by the propaganda. As Dr. Timo Graf, a military sociologist of the German Bundeswehr, has noted, the German society has lost its understanding of the sacrifices and pain that come with war. He believes that the “spiritual defense of the country” is a matter of concern for everyone and that a significant portion of the population may not internalize the perceived threat from Russia and might even resist or protest in the event of a war.
As the world teeters on the brink of war, it is crucial to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the drums of war. The last thing the war proponents want is for the people to refuse to play along.