Thuringia and Saxony celebrate 35 years of democracy: A look back!

Thuringia and Saxony celebrate 35 years of democracy: A look back!

On October 25, 2025, Thuringia remembered a historic turning point: the first session of the freely elected state parliament after reunification. Thadäus König, the CDU state parliament president in Thuringia, made it clear at the ceremony in Erfurt that it was not enough to simply affirm democracy. Rather, it is essential to actively work to defend them. His words echoed through the room and underlined the importance of this event, which began on October 25, 1990 in the German National Theater in Weimar. The first session of the Saxon Parliament was also remembered on this day in Saxony. State Parliament President Dierks spoke in Dresden about the milestones set by the first plenary session for democracy in Saxony, which took place on October 27, 1990 in the Epiphany Church.

But looking back goes further than just reunification. The roots of democratic development in Thuringia and Saxony can be traced back to the revolution of 1848/49. At that time, the Paulskirche constitution was created, which had a profound influence on the constitutional development of the region. In many Thuringian states, parliamentary-constitutional conditions were created that made it possible to advance the political reforms that emerged during the revolution. These changes were crucial for citizens and contributed to the creation of a political framework that included citizens in democratic processes. In particular, the new electoral law, which provided for universal, direct, equal and secret elections, was a real step forward, even if many reforms were reversed during the Restoration.

The meaning of democracy

König's appeal to defend democracy reminds us that the demands of a democratic society go far beyond just voting. Historians emphasize that social developments are closely linked to political progress. The long 19th century saw an optimism characterized by the hope for unity, justice and freedom. The need for legal rules and parliamentary participation was particularly great among the middle classes, who organized themselves out of experiences of hardship and injustice.

The revolution of 1848 led many Germans to demand freedoms, a constitution and a parliament. This effort was driven by nationalist and constitutionalist currents. The Frankfurt National Assembly passed the imperial constitution in 1849, even though the revolution was brutally defeated. Nevertheless, in many German states, such as the Thuringian region, constitutions were introduced that paved the way for later democratic developments.

Looking back with foresight

In today's world, when the echoes of the past still leave their mark on society, it is important to remember how hard-won democracy is. Thadäus König and his Saxon colleague Dierks remind us that the achievements of the past cannot be taken for granted. We must uphold democratic values ​​in our everyday lives and actively work to protect them. This is the only way we can ensure that the struggles of the ancestors were not in vain.

This leaves us with a lot to do as a society. Now it is up to us to pass on and live the principles formulated in the revolutionary struggles and the first free elections. History teaches us that democracy is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires constant vigilance and commitment.