Thuringia relies on flags: strengthening community feeling!

Thuringia relies on flags: strengthening community feeling!

something happens in Thuringia. As of next week, the permanent flag in the state will be introduced in all state -owned buildings. Over 53 police stations, the State Fire Brigade School, all state courts and offices are then decorated by the German National Flag, the Thuringian State Flag and the European Lag. This measure, which Interior Minister Georg Maier (SPD) announced, will be implemented on a regulation base without a new law being issued. When asked by [Thuringia24] (https://www.thueringen24.de/thueringen/article300523419/thueringen-anordord-deutschland-flagge-landesbaeude-polp.

What does this flag for society mean? Maier explains that the colors black-red-gold stand for democracy and should set an example against the abuse of these symbols. It was originally planned to have the flag plan voted in the state parliament, but this proposal was withdrawn. The reason? An identical draft law of the AfD included a ban on symbols of non-state organizations, including the rainbow flag. This was considered problematic by many.

unity in the government coalition

The government coalition of the CDU, BSW and SPD stands behind the planned regulations. CDU parliamentary group leader Andreas Bühl emphasizes that flags are more than the mere swiveling of pieces of fabric; They are a commitment to the values ​​and traditions of the country. The left, on the other hand, rejects the regulation as unnecessary and the AfD, which the European position wants to banish to German authorities, sees itself exposed to violent criticism. Maier considers this advance to replace democracy with authoritarianism. "Thuringia, Germany and Europe belong together", Maier continues to MDR.

The importance of flags does not only extend to political issues. According to the Bundestag, state symbols such as the federal flag, the national anthem or the federal eagle also have an integrative function. They express the sovereignty and authority of the state and promote the identification of citizens with their country. The choice of these symbols has a historical basis and is closely linked to the basic social beliefs.

outlook for other public buildings

Another interesting aspect of the new regulation is the possibility that the long -term flagship could also be expanded to municipalities and schools. The city administrations are recommended to orientate themselves on the new regulation and also flag their service buildings. State Chancellery CEO Stefan Gruhner (CDU) emphasizes that this measure should strengthen the community feeling of the citizens. In a country in which the discussion about national identity and belonging is repeatedly rejected, this seems to be a step in the right direction.

From when will the flags blow? The first copies will be raised next week. It remains to be seen how the population will react to this initiative and whether it can actually promote the sense of community that should be connected to it.