Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called for a commitment against "groundless rage" and "disdain for democracy". "In the democracy must be argued, if necessary, loud, but it is not without the will to understanding and not without respect for others and the institutions of democracy," he said loud speech at a public festival with volunteers in Berlin.
A democracy needed "people who tackle and not just guilty and scapegoats," said the President. "People who look beyond their own interests and are there for their fellow human beings, people who care about more than just themselves." At the same time, he signaled his support for people who demonstrated for democracy and tolerance.
In the face of right-wing extremist attacks, as in Chemnitz, Steinmeier warned of a contempt for democracy and reminded of the failure of the Weimar Republic. "We experienced hate, even violence in the street". He condemned people being threatened "because they help homeless or refugees, or because they open their mouths". On the other hand, society must "show its flag".
An "open society" must allow "criticism and dissent," the president emphasized. "But she must not be intimidated - and that's why it's good that people do not just take to the streets against something, it's good that even those who stand for democracy and cohesion, show."
Among other things, Steinmeier expressed sharp criticism of the use of the term "system" in the current political debate. "Those who are now out loud again with the slogan: 'The system must go!', I remember the consequences that had the contempt of the first democracy on German soil - and I call to them: Do not slander democracy as 'System'."