Celebrate unity: Merz and Rehlinger demand a new beginning together!

Celebrate unity: Merz and Rehlinger demand a new beginning together!

Today, October 3, 2025, Germany celebrates the 35th anniversary of reunification, an event that is still alive in people's hearts. The central celebration in Saarbrücken, under the motto “Future through change”, was opened by Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz. In his keynote speech, Merz called for overcoming the divisions in the country and creating a new unity. The Chancellor praised the courage of East Germans and made it clear that the challenges facing Germany today - such as Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine and a weakening economy - required united efforts. “2025 is a crucial moment for the history of our country,” said Merz. He also implied that each of us should embrace change and overcome fears. “This anniversary is a day of celebration for everyone,” he added, reflecting on the peaceful revolution of 1989.

Saarland Prime Minister Anke Rehlinger, who also spoke at the ceremony, emphatically called for democracy not only to be celebrated, but also to be defended resolutely. In front of around 900 guests from politics, business, churches and society, she advocated a joint effort to secure democracy. “We must prepare all constitutional means to protect them,” she said. Interestingly, she questioned the expectations towards East Germany and criticized the fact that the balance of German unity is often measured by the alignment of the eastern federal states with the west. In her view, the challenges in the East and West should be viewed as equal.

Cultural celebrations and political messages

The celebrations in Saarbrücken are not only political in nature, but also a cultural festival. Around 600 artists give their best on 20 stages and performance areas. Musical performances by popular acts such as Lea Garvey, Marquess and Die Prinzen enrich the program. The city has transformed into a colorful festival mile that invites citizens to take part in art exhibitions and political discussions.

A special guest of honor was French President Emmanuel Macron, who recalled the close friendship between Germany and France. Macron called on European citizens to become aware of threats such as the Ukraine conflict and hybrid attacks and to regain control of democracy. “The war between our countries is a thing of the past, but it is important to arm ourselves against new dangers,” said Macron.

Criticism of the framework structure

While the celebrations were joyful, there were also critical voices. Angela Merkel expressed skepticism about Macron's invitation and suggested that representatives from Eastern Europe or East Germany also be invited to the celebrations. She described reunification as a “great stroke of luck” and recalled that unity was not just an internal task of equalization, but a common change that affected all Germans.

This year's celebrations make it clear once again that German unity is a continuous process that brings with it both successes and challenges. Given today's political and social conditions, overcoming divisions remains a central concern. “Together we can create a strong and united Germany,” was Merz and Rehlinger’s final appeal.