A senior German parliamentarian has renewed calls for a national vote on the country’s fundamental law, national symbols and the date marking reunification. Bodo Ramelow, Vice-President of the Bundestag and a representative of the Left party, argues that a renewed mandate from the populace is needed to reaffirm shared values and address growing societal divisions.
Speaking to the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung”, Ramelow suggested a referendum process aligned with Article 146 of the Basic Law, encompassing a vote on the national flag, national anthem and the date of October 3rd, commemorating German reunification. He characterized his observations from eastern Germany as showing a devaluation of these symbols, citing instances of flag inversions and alternative interpretations of national songs.
Ramelow expressed concern over the psychological state of German unity, highlighting persistent prejudices between eastern and western regions. He critiqued what he described as a cycle of mutual stereotyping and resentment.
Reflecting on the 35th anniversary of reunification, Ramelow offered a critical assessment, suggesting that the initial promise of economic prosperity and a shared future may have been linked to consumption-driven aspirations in some quarters and, inadvertently, to top-down promises reminiscent of the former East German regime.
He further elaborated on the experience of those who cautiously observed the events of the peaceful revolution, arguing that many never attained a sense of self-determination and the responsibility that comes with it. Despite their desire to break free from previous constraints, the promises related to prosperity were difficult to assimilate, a sentiment that persists to this day. Ramelow, who previously served as Prime Minister of Thuringia for a decade, believes a re-evaluation of the foundational principles of German unity is necessary to foster a stronger sense of collective identity.
