Commemoration Occurs in German Parliament Marking the Conclusion of the 80th Anniversary War - Memorializing Eight Decades Since Germany's War Conclusion in the Federal Parliament
Celebrating 80 Years of Liberation: A poignant Remembrance in the German Parliament
🇩🇪 Germany marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and liberation from the Nazi regime with a somber ceremony in the Bundestag this Thursday. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier will deliver a key speech, joined by Bundestag President Bärbel Bas. The event will be attended by diplomats across the globe, excluding ambassadors from Russia and Belarus due to ongoing tensions.
Steinmeier's Speech
In line with his office, Steinmeier is expected to touch upon the lessons of May 8, addressing issues such as Russian President Vladimir Putin's manipulation of history in relation to the war against Ukraine. He will also discuss the challenges facing the international rule of law, particularly from the previous US administration, and the rise of right-wing extremism and nationalism in various Western democracies.
Excluded Guests: Russia and Belarus
The presence of Russian and Belarusian diplomats has been barred due to the conflict in Ukraine, although it's worth noting that many Ukrainians fought alongside Soviet forces during the war. Casualties from the war are estimated to have reached between 50 and over 60 million lives, with the Soviet Union alone losing around 27 million. Germany suffered around 6.3 million losses, many of whom were soldiers.
Significance of the Ceremony
This monumental commemoration represents a solemn reminder of the defeat of the Nazi regime and the liberation of Europe from totalitarian oppression. It highlights Germany’s ongoing commitment to remembering the past, upholding democracy, supporting peace, and adhering to the rule of law.
- Commemoration of Liberation: A poignant tribute to the end of World War II and the fall of the Nazi regime.
- Reflection and Responsibility: Encourages Germany to reflect on its history, acknowledge past atrocities, and emphasize the lessons learned.
- Reaffirmation of Democratic Values: Strengthens Germany’s dedication to democracy, human rights, peace, and the international rule of law.
- Message to the World: Demonstrates Germany’s vigilance against totalitarianism and a commitment to preventing the recurrence of such regimes.
- Solidarity with Affected Nations: Recognizes the suffering of nations and peoples under Nazi occupation, fostering messages of reunification and unity.
Leading Voices: Steinmeier and Bas
President Steinmeier has consistently condemned Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, critiquing Putin’s violation of international law and threat to European security. He has also expressed solidarity with Ukraine and Belarusian democracy advocates resisting authoritarianism.
Bundestag President Bärbel Bas supports measures in the Bundestag for humanitarian aid and political backing to Ukraine. She stresses the importance of parliamentary democracy as a bulwark against dictatorship and authoritarianism, advocating for united European and global responses to uphold the international legal framework. Both leaders share a common goal in defending democracy, supporting Ukraine, condemning Russia’s aggression, and safeguarding the rule of law.
The Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, particularly in light of Germany's recent focus on nuclear power. Steinmeier will address this issue in his speech, echoing concerns about the safety and health of workers in the politically and socially charged context.
In the spirit of Germany's democracy, Steinmeier and Bas will address the casualties in war-and-conflicts, not limited to World War II, to emphasize the importance of putting an end to conflicts and promoting peace. They plan to address the lessons learned from past wars and conflicts, drawing parallels to the current situation in Belarus, where democracy activists continue to face repression.
Coinciding with the anniversary, the Bundestag leaders will call for a general, worldwide movement against totalitarianism, rallying support from the international community to uphold democratic values and the rule of law. They will specifically urge action to support Belarusian democracy advocates and increase pressure on the Belarusian government.
As representatives of the German Parliament, Steinmeier and Bas share a mission to protect workers from radiation hazards at home and support the struggle for democracy and peace abroad, paying homage to the countless lives lost in the name of freedom during the wars and conflicts throughout history.
