Exploitation in Thuringia: Controversy around EU flag and national identity!

Exploitation in Thuringia: Controversy around EU flag and national identity!

In East Germany, the symbolic power of flags is increasingly being debated, especially with regard to the flagship of public buildings. A concise example provides Thuringia: There, the cabinet decided on June 17, 2025, to raise the European flag, the Germany flag and the Thuringian state flag on state -owned buildings. This was done with the aim of clearly underlining regional identity and European belonging. Prime Minister Mario Voigt (CDU) saw this an important sign of anchoring in Europe. In this context, the Tagesschau reports that the political use of national symbols, especially through parties such as the AfD, is becoming increasingly obvious.

Not everyone is behind this decision. Two days after its announcement, the AfD parliamentary group who wanted to ban the European position. The AfD justified this with the argument that the EU flag does not stand for national sovereignty and should not be hoisted at German authorities. Again, the deputies of other political groups received a contradiction, which underlines the emotionality and explosiveness of this topic.

challenges of symbol policy

The current flexion situation is not just a local problem. Critics, like sociologist Wilhelm Heitmeyer, warn of a dangerous trend in which symbolism is exchanged for substance. Heitmeyer demands more political education and social participation instead of concentrating on flags. The debate about the north flags clearly shows that a deep distrust of what these symbols represent is anchored in society.

While the flag of the Federal Republic of Germany in Thuringia is to be raised in front of schools and public buildings, there is a lot of unrest in Saxony. There, a program for democracy education was deleted, which was criticized by many, including Ronald Hand from the left in the Thuringian state parliament, as a pure symbol policy. This type of dealing with symbols has a major impact on the social perception of identity and belonging.

The role of extreme rights

Another disturbing feature of the current symbol policy is the activity of the extreme right. According to a report on Political-Bilding-Brandenburg Use right-wing extremist groups a wide range of symbols to spread their ideologies. From historical references to modified forms of well -known symbols, which are often heavily linked to the National Socialist past, a dangerous mix is ​​created that not only represents a challenge for democracy, but also drives social split.

in Saxony-Anhalt was decided to permanently raise the federal flag in front of schools, which was taken over by several counties. This symbol policy is considered by many as a step back into a exclusive attitude that counteracts the diversity and openness of a modern society.

The central question remains: Does black-red-gold stand for an open, diverse nation or for a closed society? The answer to this question could be crucial for the future development of the political landscape in Germany.