Flag dispute: German identity between pride and division!

Flag dispute: German identity between pride and division!

The discussion about national symbols and their meaning for society is currently enjoying great attention. Above all, we are increasingly seeing the black, red and gold flag, not only in sport, but also in political debates. Andreas Bühl, a thought leader on this topic, recently emphasized that there is an urge among the population to show symbols and thus satisfy a longing for identity. However, he criticizes the fact that the state is failing to exemplify this symbolism itself and sees the black, red and gold flag as a symbol of the Basic Law and for the protection of all people in Germany. Bühl describes society as divided and emphasizes that one could be proud of the shared achievements of the last 35 years. He hopes that an upcoming demonstration focusing on national flags can contribute to unity. However, the reactions are different.

Katja Maurer, the state chairwoman of the Left, expresses concerns about this. In her opinion, pride can only be created through good politics, and she questions whether all people can really rally behind the German flag. Looking at her own life, she realizes that things don't look so positive for everyone, which leads her to take a more nuanced look at the topic.

The debate about pride and nationalism

Professor Ulrich Wagner, a social psychologist at the University of Marburg, highlights the challenges associated with the use of the national flag. He warns against their misuse and calls for a critical examination of Germany's cosmopolitanism. During the 2006 World Cup, society experienced a liberating use of national colors, but afterwards there was a growing tendency towards national self-centeredness.

Wagner explains that although nationalism and patriotism can be distinguished scientifically, they often blur together in everyday life. The danger of nationalism lies in the devaluation of others, while patriotism longs for the democratic development of the country. The situation is further exacerbated by populist governments in Europe, which promote nationalist ambitions and thus endanger the image of a diverse European identity.

Social division and questions of identity

This discussion about how to deal with national identity has become even more explosive since reunification in 1990. Topics such as constitution-making and dealing with the SED past are central points in the identity discourse. Also the question “What is German today?” is controversially discussed. Jürgen Habermas spoke of the “burden of the double past” and discussed the fears of a new Greater German Empire that were being stirred up abroad.

Now the problem of the influx of asylum seekers and the associated xenophobic attacks that influence the identity debate also arises. An example can be seen in surveys that show different ideas about civil rights criteria: While 75% of West Germans feel proud of their citizenship, in East Germany this is only 50%. The depth of these identity questions is reflected in the results, according to which anti-Semitism is more pronounced in West Germany than in the East. This could further complicate the discussion in society as a whole.

Whether a proud and cosmopolitan Germany can be found remains an open question. The current debates should encourage us to understand national symbols not only as political statements, but also as part of a diverse identity that offers space for different perspectives and realities of life.

In summary, it should be noted that the question of national identity is not easy to answer and that a differentiated, respectful discussion is necessary on many levels. The debate about the meaning of the colors black, red and gold could help society bridge old divides and find new ways of understanding. While some advocate pride in their values, others advocate a multicultural perspective that includes all citizens.

MDR reports on the longing for national symbols.

RND addresses the challenges of national pride.

bpb discusses the influence of reunification on national identity.