The protection of democracy and freedom concerns us all. On 9 November in particular, the question arises of how the lessons of history can be transferred into the present.
How can the humanist values of the Grundgesetz hold society together? How do they create a shared emotional basis and a feeling of belonging for all citizens?
The dry term „Verfassungspatriotismus“ – constitutional patriotism – has to be filled with substance and emotion. Instead of defining the nation by descent and origin, an enlightened view places living together on the basis of shared values. The foundation of these values are the universal principles of the Grundgesetz: freedom, equality and the rule of law.We discussed this on 9 November 2025 as part of the first Berlin Freedom Week with our panel guests:
• Georg Maier, Minister of the Interior of the Free State of Thuringia
• Sven H. Korndörffer, Chairman of the Wertekommission – Initiative Werte Bewusste Führung e. V.
• Elio Adler, Chairman of WerteInitiative. jüdisch-deutsche Positionen e.V.
• Düzen Tekkal, author, journalist and human rights activist
Hosted by: Alina Stiegler (journalist)
