Artworks on the theme of freedom stand in front of the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin
Germany is celebrating the momentous occasion of 35 years since the historic fall of the Berlin Wall, with vibrant festivities commencing Saturday under the poignant theme “Preserve Freedom!” The backdrop of these festivities finds itself overshadowed by the ongoing war in Ukraine, as concerns about the fragility of democracy echo globally.
In a heartfelt message addressing the nation, Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized that the liberal ideals that sparked hope in 1989 are not to be taken lightly. His remarks come amidst a political storm, as his coalition government suffered a significant collapse earlier this week.
Scholz poignantly noted, “A look at our history and the world around us shows this,” referencing the tumultuous events surrounding Donald Trump’s reelection, which compounded Germany’s political instability and necessitated new elections.
The date of November 9, 1989 is etched in history as the pivotal moment when East Germany‘s oppressive regime opened its borders to the West following a series of peaceful mass protests, a turning point that ultimately catalyzed German reunification and marked the decline of Soviet communism.
Germany is marking 35 years since the Berlin Wall fell
Reflecting on the historical significance of the occasion, Berlin resident and retiree Jutta Krueger, 75, shared her sentiments regarding the current political turmoil coinciding with the anniversary weekend: “It’s a shame that it’s coinciding like this now.” Yet she insisted, “But we should still really celebrate the fall of the Wall,” recognizing it as the liberating moment when East Germans could finally travel freely, signifying a profound arrival of freedom across Germany.
President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is set to inaugurate the weekend’s commemorative events at the Berlin Wall Memorial, where he will honor the memory of at least 140 individuals who lost their lives attempting to flee the Moscow-backed German Democratic Republic (GDR) during the Cold War.
The evening will feature a grand “freedom party” complete with an immersive music and light show at the Brandenburg Gate, an iconic landmark situated along the historical path of the concrete barrier that divided Berlin from 1961 until its fall.
Additionally, on Sunday, the internationally renowned Russian protest punk band Pussy Riot will take the stage in front of the notorious former Stasi headquarters, a chilling reminder of East Germany’s secret police that instilled fear for decades.
November 9, 1989 is commemorated as the day East Germany’s dictatorship opened the borders to the West
In a demonstration of international solidarity, pro-democracy activists from various corners of the globe have been extended invitations to join in the commemorative activities, including Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya and Iranian dissident Masih Alinejad. The events will encompass talks, performances, and a large-scale open-air art exhibition, creating a vibrant tapestry of voices honoring what culture minister Claudia Roth dubbed “one of the most joyous moments in world history”.
A visually engaging display of replica placards, reminiscent of the 1989 protests, will line four kilometers of the Wall’s historic route, stretching past notable sites such as the Reichstag building and the iconic Checkpoint Charlie. This educational display aims to evoke the fervor of a bygone era.
Among the powerful art installations will be thousands of contributions crafted by citizens, all centered on the enduring theme of “freedom,” underscoring the historical significance of past events on contemporary society.
Berlin’s cultural affairs chief Joe Chialo articulated the necessity of this theme, stating, “at a time when we are confronted by rising populism, disinformation and social division,” it serves as a reminder of shared human values.
Axel Klausmeier, head of the Berlin Wall Foundation, echoed this sentiment, asserting that the profound values championed during the 1989 protests remain a crucial “power-bank for the defense of our democracy, which today is being gnawed at from the left and the right.”
Artworks are lined up as an open-air installation along part of the former course of the Berlin Wall
While most East Germans express gratitude for the end of the GDR regime, it is essential to recognize that many carry unhappiness stemming from the perceived arrogance of West Germans, and lingering resentment exists regarding the ongoing disparities in incomes and pensions between former East and West Germany. These unresolved feelings contribute to the strong support for far-right parties like the Alternative for Germany (AfD) in eastern regions, alongside pro-Russia and anti-capitalist sentiments represented by the BSW.
The results of three recent state elections in the east underscored these enduring political divisions, revealing a complex landscape three decades after reunification. Despite the troubled government’s support for Ukraine’s resistance against Russia, opposition factions including the AfD and BSW stand in stark contrast against that narrative.
At least 140 people were killed trying to flee the Moscow-backed German Democratic Republic during the Cold War
The AfD party, known for its staunch anti-immigration stance, faced embarrassment this week when several of its members were detained on suspicions of affiliation with a racist paramilitary organization that allegedly conducted urban warfare training. On the eve of the Berlin Wall anniversary, government spokesperson Christiane Hoffmann poignantly reminded the public that this weekend also coincides with the remembrance of a much darker chapter in German history.
The horrific events of the Nazis’ Kristallnacht, or Night of Broken Glass, which transpired on November 9-10, 1938, led to the murder of at least 90 Jewish individuals, the destruction of countless properties, and the arson of approximately 1,400 synagogues across Germany and Austria. Hoffmann stressed, “it is very important for our society to remember the victims… and learn the correct lessons from those events for our conduct today.”
**Interviewer**: Thank you for joining us, Jutta. As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, what emotions does this occasion bring up for you, especially in light of the current political climate?
**Jutta Krueger**: Thank you for having me. It’s a bittersweet moment, really. On one hand, we’re reminded of the incredible joy and freedom that came with the Wall’s fall—just the ability to travel freely after years of oppression. But on the other hand, it’s hard to ignore the political turmoil we are facing now. The idea of freedom feels fragile.
**Interviewer**: Chancellor Olaf Scholz has mentioned that the ideals from 1989 shouldn’t be taken lightly, especially with the resurgence of political instability. How do you feel about his comments?
**Jutta Krueger**: I completely agree. The fall of the Wall was a monumental moment, but it also serves as a reminder that freedom and democracy require constant vigilance. Just as we fought for our liberties then, we must be ready to protect them now. Political chaos shouldn’t overshadow the significance of this anniversary, but it certainly highlights how fragile these ideals are.
**Interviewer**: This weekend’s celebrations include many events, such as a ”freedom party” at the Brandenburg Gate and performances by international artists like Pussy Riot. What do you think about this global engagement in the celebrations?
**Jutta Krueger**: It’s wonderful to see international solidarity, especially from activists who have faced repression in their own countries. It shows that the struggle for freedom transcends borders. These events remind us that we are part of a global fight against oppression and a shared commitment to democracy and human rights.
**Interviewer**: You mentioned feeling the need to celebrate despite the political atmosphere. How do you think Germany can balance this celebration of freedom while also addressing contemporary political issues?
**Jutta Krueger**: I think it’s important to celebrate our history and honor those who fought for our freedoms. However, these celebrations must also include reflective conversations about the challenges we face today. We can’t ignore the lessons of our past, and we must use this moment to inspire action in addressing present issues like rising populism and disinformation.
**Interviewer**: Thank you for sharing your insights, Jutta. As we reflect and celebrate, what message would you like to convey to the younger generation about the significance of this anniversary?
**Jutta Krueger**: My message would be to cherish and protect your freedoms. Understand the sacrifices made by those before you. Engage in your democracy, express your views, and stand against oppression wherever you see it. History has shown us how quickly freedom can be lost, and it’s our duty to safeguard what we have achieved.
