Steinmeier in Neuruppin: Praise for East German and debate about compromises

Steinmeier in Neuruppin: Praise for East German and debate about compromises

Neuruppin, Deutschland - On July 3, 2025, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier visited Neuruppin as part of the so-called local period. In doing so, he praised the remarkable life of the East Germans and recalled the “dramatic transformation” of the city since the reunification in 1990. Steinmeier found that the once large companies of the GDR have only been the clinics that have become newly employers and a center for medical training. This development shows the adaptability and resilience of the people in the region, who continue to find their place in medium -sized companies and thus contribute to the economic revival. The developments in Neuruppin are an impressive example of change that East Germany has undergone in recent decades, which Steinmeier emphasized several times.

But the changes are not only economic in nature. The political currents also form an important field. Current election forecasts indicate that the AfD may be able to rise to the strongest strength in the upcoming state elections in Saxony, Thuringia and Brandenburg. This is primarily due to the continuing dissatisfaction of many citizens with the political and social conditions, some of which are attributed to the upheavals after 1989/90. Historians like Detlev Brunner point out that the East Germans should not be understood as a passive victim, but as acting subjects that were actively involved in the transformation process.

The challenges of the past and present

dealing with the AfD was another topic that Steinmeier appealed. He encouraged to search for compromises and integrate many interests into a dialogue. At the same time, he commented on the need for a military strength to support diplomacy and consider points that conscription is necessary. These topics reflect the overall social challenges that not only East Germany, but the entire Federal Republic.

The transformation of East German society has been intensively researched for years. While the focus was primarily on social science issues in the 1990s, contemporary history research has gained importance since the mid -2010s. Especially the discussion about the term "East Germany" and the associated experiences has changed. The turnaround is often heroized in society, but many challenges remain unsolved to this day. For many citizens, social inequalities have existed between the east and west and promote the rise of right movements. A transparent participation of the employees is crucial to make future transformation processes fair and fair.

look into the future

With the experience of the past in mind, historians and political scientists are calling for more focus on the active role of the East German staff during the economic upheavals. These should not only be regarded as a passive recipient of changes, but as an active designer of their future. Political and social mobilization are required to counteract the right -wing currents in society and to promote a socially just transformation.

whether and how the people in East Germany take this path together remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the challenges are complex and complex, and the dialogue has to be revived in order to create trust and perspectives. As Steinmeier concluded, we have to be ready to ask ourselves the questions of the future and to actively contribute - this is the only way to create the foundation for a positive further development.