Memorial event for peace: DGB calls for solidarity!

Memorial event for peace: DGB calls for solidarity!

The urgency for peace and security is becoming increasingly palpable in these turbulent times. This will also become clear on the occasion of the upcoming memorial event of the German Federation of Trade Unions (DGB) on September 1, 2025. Under the motto "For a policy of peacemaking! Never again war - in Germany, Europe and worldwide!" Numerous participants are expected who want to work for a peaceful and humane world. The DGB is actively committed to a peace and security order that relies on multilateral conflict resolution, diplomacy and war prevention, especially at a time when over 200,000 people could lose their lives due to violent conflicts by the end of 2025. Over 120 million people are currently on the run, an alarming number that gives even more cause for concern, according to the DGB city association IG Metall Salzgitter-Peine.

The memorial event will begin at the Jammertal cemetery in Salzgitter Lebenstedt at 5 p.m., moderated by Markus Hulm, chairman of the DGB Salzgitter city association. Greetings from Mayor Frank Klingebiel and a keynote speech from Chaja Boebel, member of the IG Metall board, are on the program. The event will be accompanied musically by Isabel Neuenfeldt, who will create an inviting atmosphere with singing and accordion.

Capability for peace instead of capability for war

The emphasis on the capacity for peace is reiterated by over 140 trade unionists who adopted an urgent call for support on March 4, 2024 as part of the “Trade Unions Against Armament” initiative. They demand that instead of massive military spending, the money should be channeled into social investments and education. This criticism is directed against the increasing spending on the military and armaments, while more and more cuts are being made in social areas, education and infrastructure. Ulrike Eifler, federal spokeswoman for the BAG Operations and Trade Union in the Die Linke party, spoke in an interview about the dissatisfaction with the federal government and the need for a fundamental political change. So far, around 4,800 people have called for "Trade unions against rearmament and war! Ability to make peace instead of a capacity for war!" supports LabourNet.

The unions' critical stance highlights societal concerns about military preparations, which are seen as harmful to civil society. Other issues such as the rejection of conscription or new war loans show the determination to work for a more peaceful future.

The historical context of the peace movement

Today's peace movement has its roots in a long tradition that goes back to ancient times. The modern peace movement, which emerged in the 19th century with massive opposition to war and arms build-ups, is now drawing lessons from history. The idea of ​​the Koine Eirene in ancient Greece strived for a binding, peaceful coexistence. Throughout history there have been repeated efforts to reject war as a political instrument and to resolve conflicts peacefully. The experiences from past conflicts, particularly the déjà vu of a divided world in the Cold War and the crises that followed, illustrate the urgency for increased peace diplomacy Wikipedia.

Overall, with this memorial event and the union members' initiatives, the DGB is showing a clear position: A peaceful future is possible if we work committedly and purposefully for peace. We invite all interested parties to take part in this important day and raise their voices for peace and security.