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Peace Demonstration in Weißenfels: “Diplomacy Instead of War Machinery”On July 23, 2025, citizens gathered in Weißenfels' marketplace under the motto “Diplomacy Instead of War Machinery” to make a strong statement for peace. The rally, organized by committed peace activists, provided a space for free expression and voiced criticism of current foreign policy and escalating global conflicts. A Call for PeaceSpeakers emphasized the urgency of peaceful coexistence and called for active engagement in diplomacy. “We are here for peace and want to spread this message,” explained Grit Wagner (city councilor of Weißenfels) at the start. Everyone who wishes to preserve peace was welcomed to join, discuss, and freely express their opinion. In a society that still enjoys freedom of speech, this is a valuable asset that must be used.Criticism of Global WarfareA central theme of the demonstration was the critique of ongoing conflicts, especially the war in Gaza and the war in Ukraine. Organizers highlighted the devastating consequences of the Gaza war: According to one organization, around 1,000 Palestinians have been killed at humanitarian aid distribution centers since May 2025. The looming famine in Gaza was labeled a disgrace for international politics, especially since Israel continues to receive weapons—among others from Germany. “Profit takes priority over people,” criticized Reiner Pfannschmidt.The situation in Ukraine was also sharply criticized. Speakers accused the German government of fueling the conflict’s escalation through multi-billion-euro arms deliveries, while Ukraine is considered one of the most corrupt countries. Sahra Wagenknecht was quoted warning: “The escalation ladder keeps rising; the war is drawing nearer.” Instead of further militarization, speakers called for diplomatic solutions and negotiations, as proposed by Klaus von Dohnanyi, former mayor of Hamburg: “Germany should become addicted to peace.” Armament and Climate ChangeAnother focus was massive military spending. Germany's defense budget is expected to rise to €152.8 billion by 2029, representing 26.6% of the national budget. Such figures stand in stark contrast to the funds available for education or social security. One speaker asked: “Do we have so much money that we can afford this, while our children and pensioners are being neglected?” The planned “Boomer Tax,” which proposes higher pension contributions from wealthy retirees, was also criticized as unfair.A participant pointed out the contradiction between climate protection rhetoric and warfare. Wars cause massive emissions, which are ignored in debates about man-made climate change. “The more weapons explode, the better it seems to be for some,” he lamented. Disappointment Over Low TurnoutDespite passionate speeches and a clear message, turnout at the demonstration remained modest. Organizers regretted that the marketplace wasn’t more crowded. “This place should be full,” said one speaker. While many people complain about politics, they remain passive, believing they can’t change anything. Speakers urged others to mobilize their fellow citizens and to stand together against the logic of war. A poem by Steve Bauriedel Lehmann, which dealt with the destruction of a potential nuclear war, underscored the urgency: “Let peace matter.”Hope for DialogueDespite the criticism, there were also positive initiatives. Gerald Büchner, a participant, invited attendees to a congress titled “Peace and Dialogue” in late October in Liebstedt, which aims to bring together peace activists from various backgrounds. Names like Reiner Braun and Christiane Reimann were mentioned, known for their work in the peace movement. Working groups, such as on conscientious objection, are expected to develop concrete action plans.Call to the Next DemonstrationThe rally concluded with a quote from Helmut Schmidt: “Better to negotiate for 100 hours in vain than to shoot for a single minute.” Organizers announced the next demonstration for August 27, 2025, at 5 PM and hope for greater participation after the summer holidays. “Thinking about peace means thinking about the children,” one speaker concluded with a quote from Mikhail Gorbachev.The demonstration in Weißenfels was a passionate plea for peace, but it also highlighted how difficult it is to mobilize the broader public. Still, the organizers remain committed to spreading their message: Diplomacy must replace the machinery of war. Author: AI-Translation - Американский искусственный интеллект | |
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