The Basic Law is 75 years old. The Federal Minister of Justice would like to see more appreciation for the constitution and democracy. But he rejects one idea.
On the 75th anniversary of the Basic Law, Federal Justice Minister Marco Buschmann hopes that there will be more appreciation for the constitution and democracy in Germany. “You don’t have to like everything that happens in our country. Criticism of politics is part of democracy. But our constitution as a framework for politics has ensured the freest and most prosperous state we have ever had,” the FDP politician told the “Rheinische Post”. He recommends that those who question democracy take a look at the world: “They would not be able to live better in an authoritarian state.”
“We would benefit from a dash more constitutional patriotism,” added Buschmann. Germans sometimes lack a sense of community. “We should develop a stronger, positive feeling towards the democratic state and its institutions.”
With a state ceremony, the leaders of state and society are celebrating the entry into force of the Basic Law 75 years ago today. May 23, 1949 also marks the founding date of the Federal Republic of Germany. Buschmann has fundamental sympathy for proposals to make May 23 a public holiday, he said. “But more public holidays are not economically feasible at the moment. So you would also have to answer the question of which other public holiday you would want to abolish in return.”
The Federal Constitutional Court is the guardian of the Basic Law. The traffic light coalition and the Union are currently discussing how to better protect it from possible access by populists and enemies of democracy. “The talks between the coalition and the Union are serious and trusting. My hope is that in the summer we will present a list of proposals on what we jointly believe should be done,” said Buschmann. The process of amending the Basic Law could be completed by the end of the year.
Source: Stern
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