Crises, wars, disasters – the world around us is increasingly shaky. Much of what we long relied upon is uncertain. In a rapidly changing world, we see the political climate in Europe changing dangerously. Fears of change, loss, and poverty are deliberately fueled, and people are pitted against each other. Divides in society deepen.
In Germany, the political landscape is developing alarmingly: right-wing and extremist views are gaining public support. Racism, antisemitism, and other forms of group-related hostility are on the rise. Individuals are demeaned due to poverty, unemployment, or homelessness, and are socially excluded. At the same time, crucial tasks such as climate protection and social justice are devalued as burdensome impositions.
Disrespect, hostilities, and the denial of facts dominate parts of the societal mood. The separation from detractors of democracy like the AfD is diminishing. Standing up for human rights is questioned. Refugees are massively deprived of rights, and those who support them are increasingly criminalized. Our societal coexistence, diversity, and fairness – our democracy – is in danger.
But we are determined to be loud and active: for an open, democratic, pluralistic, and solidarity society, collectively against the right-wing shift in Germany and Europe! Silence is not an option! We must become visible and audible. The time to act is now because the municipal, regional, and European elections in 2024 are crucial!
schwelle Foundation - Contributions to Peace
As a peace foundation, we see our contribution above all in drawing attention to peace-supporting forces, in view of violent conflicts, currently in particular the wars in Ukraine and Israel/Palestine.
The Bremen International Peace Award, which is to be awarded on 31 May 2024 at 6 p.m. in Bremen Town Hall, shines a public spotlight on groups and individuals who are exemplary in their efforts to counter the logic of violence with a logic that overcomes violence.
Our event series Peace Logic Perspectives and Traditions in Times of War (in German) makes a contribution to building peace in an increasingly tense society.
