President Steinmeier urges vigorous defence of German democracy on Unity Day
On Germany's Unity Day, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier warned that extremist forces, fueled by social-media lies, threaten democracy and national cohesion.
At the German Unity Day event in Bremen, President Frank-Walter Steinmeier appealed for a steadfast protection of democracy, citing a rise in extremist groups bolstered by online falsehoods. He described one outlet political climate as marked by intolerable demagogy that threatens liberty, democracy, and the country's internal cohesion. Steinmeier highlighted that a significant share of the electorate expresses disillusionment with core state decisions, urging that every ballot be respected.
He warned that attempts to erase Holocaust memory illustrate how right-wing factions are challenging democratic foundations. The president reflected on the 36-year-old healing of Germany's division, emphasizing that progress requires political will, courage to reform, and collective action to keep the nation a good place to live.
Why it matters
The speech signals official concern over rising extremism and the need to safeguard Germany's democratic system.
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