Basic Law Day: Steinmeier Calls for Energy and Action in Democracy

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called on citizens to actively participate in strengthening democracy, stating that "Democracy needs active citizens. It needs energy and action." Speaking to the German Press Agency in Berlin, Steinmeier emphasized that Germany's free and democratic order thrives on the contributions and engagement of every individual.

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Democracy needs active citizens. It needs energy and action.

Steinmeier described the Basic Law, Germany's constitution, as a significant achievement for the country and its society. However, he stressed that democracy is not merely an intellectual concept but requires "arms and legs" – people willing to get involved and participate. The Basic Law, enacted on May 23, 1949, has been designated by Steinmeier as an "honorary day" to draw attention to its significance and to promote volunteerism through various activities across Germany.

Leading by example, Steinmeier participated in community gardening in Berlin's Neukölln district, planting zucchini and harvesting spinach. "Volunteer work is the backbone of our democracy," he declared at the Prinzessinnengarten, a community garden located on former cemetery grounds. "We could not wish for a better birthday gift for our constitution than to do something together for our country."

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Our free, democratic order lives from the contribution of every individual and from engagement in our society.

Steinmeier has been actively promoting volunteerism in the days leading up to the honorary day. His recent activities included cleaning Stolpersteine (stumbling stones) commemorating Nazi victims in Dorsten and assisting the Alpine Association with trail maintenance in the Chiemgau region. He also read to children with his wife, Elke Büdenbender, and planned a visit to a senior citizens' home.

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But democracy is not just a matter of the mind. It needs arms and legs, meaning people who get involved, who participate.

Steinmeier expressed a personal commitment to raising public awareness of the constitution's anniversary beyond political circles. "Our Basic Law guarantees freedom, the rule of law, and democracy for all of us," he stated, advocating for May 23rd to be celebrated by individuals taking action for the country or supporting each other. He believes that collective participation fosters a shared democratic experience, empowering individuals to realize their potential for positive change and creating opportunities for meaningful social interaction.

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Volunteer work is the backbone of our democracy.