So Why's the Soviet Flag a No-No at Berlin's WWII Memorials? Let's Dive In!
Lawful Restrictions on Soviet Flags at WWII Memorials in Berlin Persist - Restriction of Soviet Flags at World War II Memorial in Berlin
In the heart of the German capital, a restricted zone is set during the commemorations marking 80 years since the end of World War II, with the prohibition of Soviet and Russian flags, military insignia, and related symbols like the St. George’s ribbon [2][5]. Military songs, marches, and anything deemed to glorify the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict are also off the table during this commemorative period [2].
The Nitty-Gritty
- Nix on War Glorification: The primary reason behind this ban is to avoid glorifying war and squashing propaganda, considering the volatile geopolitical landscape surrounding Russia's war in Ukraine [2][5].
- Public Order & Security: Police strive to ensure safety at these events by nixing festive attributes deemed potential security risks during the sensitive commemoration periods [4][5].
- Political Sensitivity: The ban also comes as a precautionary measure to prevent fueling discord or endorsing current Russian military actions in Ukraine [2][3].
The Legal Lowdown
- Police Decrees}: These restrictions are enforced through general police decrees, temporary but legally binding orders issued under Berlin’s administrative law [2][5].
- Court Approval: The administrative court in Berlin has ratified the police decision, acknowledging the authorities' role in upholding public order and preventing potential disturbances during memorial events [2][3].
- Excepting the Exceptional: The ban does not affect WWII veterans, diplomats, or official representatives of countries involved in the victory over Nazism, who can display these symbols at the commemorative events on behalf of their respective nations [2].
Wrapping Up
The ban on the display of Soviet flags and related symbols at Berlin’s WWII memorials during the 80th anniversary commemorations seeks to avert war glorification, uphold public order, and sidestep the appearance of political backing for ongoing conflicts [2][3][5]. The legal standing for the ban stems from general police decrees upheld by the administrative court, restricting certain symbols during sensitive commemorations [2][3][5].
In the height of Berlin's commemorations for the 80-year anniversary of World War II's end, the Soviet and Russian flags, along with military insignia and related symbols like the St. George’s ribbon, are prohibited [2][5]. This ban is primarily aimed at avoiding war glorification and suppressing propaganda amidst the unstable geopolitical climate surrounding Russia's war in Ukraine [2][5].
The authorities enforce this ban through general police decrees, temporary orders that are legally binding under Berlin’s administrative law [2][5]. In fact, the administrative court of Berlin has approved these restrictions, understanding the need to maintain public order and prevent potential disturbances during memorial events [2][3].
Despite the ban, exceptions are made for WWII veterans, diplomats, and official representatives of countries involved in the victory over Nazism, allowing them to display these symbols at commemorative events [2].
Ultimately, the prohibition of Soviet flags at Berlin’s WWII memorials during the 80th anniversary commemorations is intended to hinder war glorification, secure public order, and steer clear of endorsing ongoing conflicts [2][3][5].
