German president sees role evolving to guarantee democracy against far-right

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier believes his office must take a more active role in safeguarding democracy, particularly in light of the far-right's growing influence. In an interview with ZDF, Steinmeier stated that the federal president can no longer "hover above the parties" when a significant portion of voters are casting ballots "against the democratic system."

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In the future, more than ever, the federal president will remain a kind of guarantee of democracy.

"In the future, more than ever, the federal president will remain a kind of guarantee of democracy," Steinmeier declared. He explained that while the presidential role traditionally remained impartial, this is no longer adequate. "Impartiality is no longer enough, one must take a stand," he added, emphasizing the need to actively defend democratic principles.

These remarks precede regional elections in Berlin, Saxony-Anhalt, and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in September. Polls show the Alternative for Germany (AfD), an anti-immigrant and pro-Russian party, leading in the eastern states. Steinmeier acknowledged that "nothing is decided yet" but stressed that he takes these developments "very seriously."

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Impartiality is no longer enough, one must take a stand.

While the German president's role is largely ceremonial, it carries significant moral influence. Steinmeier has previously urged voters to consider the future of democracy, stating, "it is you who decide if we keep our democratic system."

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it is you who decide if we keep our democratic system.