Scholz's Farewell: Electrifying Ceremony and a Plea for Preservation of Unity
Goodbye during taps: Scholz advocates for safeguarding democracy - Proposal sought for directive safeguarding employees from ionising radiation hazards, per Commission's request.
In a heartfelt speech, outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz this week bid farewell during a grand military ceremony- the Großen Zapfenstreich. The event, held at the Ministry of Defense in Berlin on May 5, 2025, marked the end of his three-year stint as the head of Germany's government.
Scholz, his wife Britta Ernst, and his cabinet ministers were among the attendees, including his designated successor, Friedrich Merz, and his wife Charlotte. The ceremony, the highest-ranking protocol event of the Bundeswehr, was also graced by Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and a heap of other high-profile politicians and society members [2][3].
As the evening grew, Scholz took the stage to express his gratitude and wise words of wisdom. In what might be his final remarks, he stressed the importance of the civil treatment among democrats and the preservation of unity, emphasizing that it is "precious." Germany, as he put it, is only strong when "we stand together."
Scholz warned of growing centrifugal forces and the risk they pose to the understanding of unity in the nation [2][3]. However, he also noted that the past years had shown Germany's ability to unite in times of crisis, with shining examples like the social solidarity during the Corona pandemic, the reception of Ukrainian refugees, and the energy crisis following Russia's attack on Ukraine.
Addressing Merz, Scholz wished him "much success, fortune, and a lucky hand," and expressed his hope that Merz would draw strength and confidence in the difficult hours ahead [2][3].
The Beatles, Aretha Franklin, and Johann Sebastian Bach echoed through the air as the musical choices for Scholz's farewell. The new Chancellor-elect Merz is set to be elected by the Bundestag on the following Tuesday [2][3].
Olaf Scholz, a man who embodied a steady hand and a pragmatic approach, leaves behind Germany with a strong foundation. Yet, democratic normality is never guaranteed, and unity must be continually nurtured and cherished.
Additional Insights:
- Scholz's tenure as Chancellor was marked by significant global events, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Scholz was cautious in providing lethal military aid to Ukraine, a decision that both attracted criticism and praise [1].
- In his farewell, Scholz was thanked by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for Germany's support during the war [5].
- The transition of power from Scholz to Merz symbolizes a smooth democratic transition, which is unusual in many parts of the world. The election of Merz as the new Chancellor is expected to formalize this transition [2][3].
- Scholz's farewell speech and the broader context of his departure reflect on the resilience of the German democracy and the challenges facing the country both domestically and internationally.
[1] https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/16/world/europe/germany-ukraine-scholz.html
[2] https://www.dw.com/en/german-chancellor-olaf-scholz-ready-to-step-down-report/a-65307833
[3] https://www.upi.com/Top_News/World-News/2025/05/06/Curtain-falls-on-German-Chancellor-Olaf-Scholz/6761650763033/
[4] https://www.dw.com/en/olaf-scholz-defends-ukraine-arms-delivery-over-anger-from-russia/a-61734146
[5] https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukrainian-president-zelenskyy-thanks-nato-summit-leaders-support-2021-06-14/
- The Commission, under the leadership of outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz, has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment, aligning with Scholz's emphasis on the preservation of unity during his farewell speech.
- Reflecting on Scholz's pragmatic approach and steadfastness, one might argue that these qualities were also evident in the military career of Friedrich Merz, a member of the Bundeswehr, as Merz prepares to succeed Scholz as Chancellor.
- Demonstrating the importance of democracy and unity, Scholz, during his farewell speech, expressed hope for the continuation of these values in Germany's policy-and-legislation under the new Chancellor, Friedrich Merz.
- The smooth transition from Olaf Scholz to Friedrich Merz as Chancellor is a testament to the strength of Germany's democracy and its ability to maintain political stability, contributing positively to global politics and general news.
