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35 years of democracy: contemporary witnesses look back on Brandenburg's path
On November 6, 2025, the Brandenburg state parliament will celebrate the 35th anniversary of democracy in the state with contemporary witnesses.
35 years of democracy: contemporary witnesses look back on Brandenburg's path
On November 6, 2025, the second event in the “Forum Democracy” series took place in the plenary hall of the Brandenburg state parliament. On the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the state parliament, whose first election took place in October 1990, numerous prominent contemporary witnesses were invited to discuss the beginnings of democracy in Brandenburg. Moderated by the President of the State Parliament, Prof. Dr. Ulrike Liedtke, those present experienced a lively, insightful discussion.
The participants included well-known personalities such as Alwin Ziel, former deputy prime minister, and Jes Möller, the former president of the state constitutional court. Barbara Richstein, former Vice President of the State Parliament, and Beate Blechinger, former Member of Parliament and Minister of Justice, were also represented. Thomas Domres, also a former member of the state parliament, joined the group and ensured a valuable exchange of memories and insights.
The spirit of the 90s
The discussion addressed topics such as the development of democratic institutions and structures in Brandenburg. Participants remembered the spirit of cooperation that prevailed in the 1990s and reflected on the failed merger of Brandenburg with Berlin. Particular attention was paid to the importance of the committee set up in 1990 to draft the state constitution. It was highlighted that even voices from the CDU parliamentary group voted for the constitution, despite initial concerns.
The term “Brandenburg Way” was mentioned several times in the discussions and is a symbol of the region's special development process. The aim of the “Forum Democracy” series is to promote a dialogue between politics, science, art and society and to set an example for democratic values.
A lively exchange
Numerous former members of the state parliament as well as interested citizens had the opportunity to ask the contemporary witnesses their questions and talk to them. This promoted a lively exchange and showed how important it is to maintain democratic values even today. The event was recorded and is available in the media library of the Brandenburg State Parliament, so that even those who could not be present in person can enjoy this informative dialogue.
Brandenburg, a federal state in northeast Germany, has an interesting history. It emerged in the 9th century and grew into a significant part of the Holy Roman Empire. With around 2.5 million inhabitants, it is the fifth largest German state by area and is one of the least densely populated regions. Potsdam as the capital and other cities such as Cottbus and Frankfurt (Oder) shape the image of the country, which is now very popular due to its natural environment and diverse economy, including the Tesla Gigafactory.
The event reflects the importance of learning the lessons of history and continuing to promote dialogue about the values of democracy in the future. Brandenburg not only has an eventful past, but also an exciting future ahead of it, which is characterized by the strong commitment of citizens and political actors.