03/10/2026
Democracy cannot be taken for granted. It must be safeguarded and practised anew every day.
Germany has experienced this first-hand throughout its history; its first democracy was established in 1919. However, it came to an end in 1933. This was followed by a period of dictatorship, war and the division of Germany, symbolised by the Berlin Wall. Places such as Niederkirchnerstrasse in Berlin serve as a reminder of this history.
In 1990, 36 years ago, reunification was achieved through free elections. This was driven by the peaceful revolution of the people in the GDR and made possible by international diplomacy.
Divided by history. United by choice.
What decisions have shaped your country?
