Steinmeier: 'Safety net for democracy' against rising extremist forces

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier voiced deep concern over the growing strength of extremist movements that pose a threat to democracy, both within Germany and on the global stage. Speaking in his customary summer interview with ZDF, Germany's second public television channel, Steinmeier characterized his presidential office as a 'safety net for democracy.'

Steinmeier highlighted what he termed a 'double historical turning point,' referencing both the United States and Russia. He noted that Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine had shattered the European security architecture. Simultaneously, he observed a shift in American values under Donald Trump, stating that the U.S. was demonstrating a change in its perception of established values. He stressed the need for a realistic approach to U.S.-German relations, acknowledging the U.S.'s indispensability while asserting that Germany was not responsible for the current distance between the two nations.

Addressing the upcoming state elections in Saxony-Anhalt, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and Berlin, Steinmeier commented on the potential gains of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party. He urged centrist parties to prevent extremist forces from securing an outright majority, emphasizing that election outcomes are not predetermined even when polls favor the far-right. He reiterated that his role serves as a bulwark against populist pressures, noting a significant number of citizens who vote against the democratic system itself.

Furthermore, Steinmeier welcomed recent reforms by the federal government in areas such as social security, health, and pensions, exclaiming, 'Finally, something happened! Something important happened!' He expressed hope for a new phase of more active governance, moving beyond political stagnation. He called for patience and persistence from both the government and the public, underscoring economic growth as a crucial factor in restoring citizens' trust.