Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called on the German people to participate with greater civic commitment. In an article published in the Funke Media Group’s newspapers (Wednesday editions), Steinmeier stated that “our country needs more committed individuals from all walks of life to help strengthen social cohesion and protect the democracy enshrined in the Basic Law”.
According to Steinmeier, liberal democracy cannot survive merely on the text of the constitution; it requires confident citizens who demonstrate the values of the Basic Law through their daily actions and actively commit to human dignity, freedom, and equality. This, he emphasized, is the core message for the Constitution Day on May 23rd.
The Federal President reinforced his desire to commemorate the anniversary of the Basic Law not as a formal ceremony, but rather in a way that is “joyful, vibrant, and present in many places at the same time”. He viewed Constitution Day as an ideal opportunity to spark enthusiasm for civic involvement, which is why he has declared May 23rd an “Honor Day”. Steinmeier invited all citizens to organize participatory activities, whether undertaken individually, or with their groups, companies, or local municipalities.
The Federal President expressed concern that liberal democracy faces threats both internally and externally. He noted, “We are witnessing extremists spreading hate and hostility towards humanity and attempting to divide our society. We are also seeing debates become harsher, with opinions clashing unpleasantly”. Precisely during this time, he stressed that it is a great blessing that so many people volunteer to contribute to a harmonious coexistence. All of these people, according to Steinmeier, now need support.