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Stegner defends participation in controversial peace demonstration in Berlin
Ralf Stegner defends his participation in the peace demonstration in Berlin and warns against populism dominating the peace movement.
Stegner defends participation in controversial peace demonstration in Berlin
Berlin (ots)
Ralf Stegner, a prominent SPD member of the Bundestag, has deigned to appear as a speaker at a controversial peace demonstration in Berlin. This event, which takes place on Thursday, has caused excitement in recent days, mainly due to the presence of Sahra Wagenknecht, leader of the Movement for Peace (BSW). Stegner explained on rbb24 Inforadio that he sees no reason to let himself be dissuaded from his political convictions, even if different opinions are represented on stage.
"The SPD belongs to the peace movement. This movement has always had many facets, with different parties and individuals," emphasized Stegner. He pointed out that the focus of criticism of Wagenknecht was exaggerated. “I don’t define myself by them,” he added, pointing out that it would be dangerous to leave the peace movement to the populists, as has already happened in several eastern German states.
Content of the demonstration
The planned demonstration is aimed, among other things, against German arms deliveries to Ukraine and Israel. Stegner made it clear that he would address this issue, but also focus on the need for diplomatic efforts to prevent war. “There are not only military solutions; we also have to think about negotiations,” he continued.
In his opinion, the current situation in the Middle East is a good example of how unfinished diplomatic efforts can lead to escalating conflicts. Stegner also confirmed that he had not signed the call to take part in the demonstration because he did not agree with all aspects. However, he points out that it is essential to continue to engage in these discussions and that there is always an alternative to war, but never to peace.
"We have to understand this! Willy Brandt was also criticized because speakers of other political orientations spoke at the same events. This must not stop us from representing our own position," concluded Stegner, who referred to the SPD's long tradition in the peace movement. There is more about this and the background to this discussion the article from www.presseportal.de.