In his traditional Christmas speech, Federal President Frank Walter Steinmeier campaigned for social cohesion. In the face of major crises, he called for “courage and cooperation” from the German population. One should not give up hope for a peaceful world, especially when the world shows its “dark side”.
The pre-recorded speech focused on the Ukraine war and the escalation of the Middle East conflict since the massacre by Hamas and other terrorist groups in Israel on October 7th. Steinmeier expressed his understanding that those responsible for politics are “struggling to find the right path in such a world situation.” At the same time, one can rightly demand that “they provide answers that will help us as a country.”
Better advice than anger and contempt
The current situation is difficult for democracy, he said Federal President further. That’s precisely why there are better advisors than “anger and contempt.” He warned Germans not to turn away from democracy. “Yes, we long for clarity. Yes, it is right to expect those in political responsibility to fight for the right path, but also to give answers that will help us as a country,” said Steinmeier.
It is wrong to turn to those who promise simple solutions to the questions of the future. “We can only move forward together and not if everyone withdraws into their own world.”
He didn’t want to imagine a Germany like that, said Steinmeier. Instead, we can only cope with a world that challenges us through the collaboration of “sensible and responsible people.” Everyone is asked, “in the city or in the country, whether they are young or old, whether they have immigrated or have always lived here.”
“Germany is and remains a good country”
With a view to the Federal Republic’s 75th birthday next year, Steinmeier said that its own democracy and constitution were achievements that one could be proud of. “Germany is and remains a good country” – one should trust that instead of turning away from social cohesion. Democrats must continue to work together where “the common whole” is at stake.
The Federal President’s Christmas speech is recorded every year at his official residence, Bellevue Palace. ARD and ZDF will broadcast it on television and in a live stream on the evening of December 25th. It will then be available in the media libraries of public broadcasters.
In his traditional Christmas speech, Federal President Frank Walter Steinmeier campaigned for social cohesion. In the face of major crises, he called for “courage and cooperation” from the German population. One should not give up hope for a peaceful world, especially when the world shows its “dark side”.
The pre-recorded speech focused on the Ukraine war and the escalation of the Middle East conflict since the massacre by Hamas and other terrorist groups in Israel on October 7th. Steinmeier expressed his understanding that those responsible for politics are “struggling to find the right path in such a world situation.” At the same time, one can rightly demand that “they provide answers that will help us as a country.”