In recent discussions surrounding Germany’s security policy, Bischöfin Kirsten Fehrs, the current chair of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), has made significant remarks regarding the proposed deployment of conventional medium-range missiles. This statement comes ahead of the International Day of Peace on September 21, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue in light of ongoing global conflicts.
Bischöfin Fehrs expressed her concerns about the increasing violence worldwide, emphasizing the disconnect between the hopeful message of the Beatitudes—“Blessed are the peacemakers”—and the harsh realities of war, particularly the conflict in Ukraine, which is alarmingly close to Germany. She underscored the ramifications of Russia’s ongoing military actions, which began with the invasion of Ukraine nearly two and a half years ago.
Notwendigkeit einer breiten Debatte
Following the announcement that the German government, in collaboration with the White House, plans to station these missiles by 2026, Fehrs pointed out that the conversation surrounding this decision had largely fallen silent. She advocates for a thorough and open discussion about the implications of such military maneuvers. With this topic gaining traction in local election campaigns, she urges a comprehensive and careful weighting of arguments to avoid misinformation and manipulation by external forces.
One of the critical queries Fehrs raises is the potential impact of these missiles on national security. Reflecting on past discussions regarding military presence, she recalls the intense debates that previously arose within political spheres and even among church communities. Such vigorous exchanges, while taxing, ultimately benefitted societal understanding and consensus.
Fehrs acknowledges that the geopolitical landscape has shifted dramatically, especially considering the current aggressiveness of Russia compared to past leadership. She stresses the necessity for strategies that focus on peace negotiations, not merely deterrence. This dual approach should intertwine ethical considerations regarding both peace and security.
Moving forward, she insists that the stationing of medium-range missiles must not only be justified by immediate security needs but should also signal a commitment to pursue disarmament and constructive dialogue within international frameworks. The notion of military engagement should aim primarily to pave the way for lasting peace.
In a recent EKD council meeting, the assembly received insights from political scientist Thomas Müller-Färber concerning the ethical aspects of missile deployment. This expert analysis is crucial as the church touches upon complex themes of war and peace, seeking to align its stance with its broader mission of advocating for a just and equitable global order.
As Fehrs concludes, the church’s perspective emphasizes that a true understanding of „just peace“ encompasses various dimensions: protection from violence, promotion of freedom, reduction of poverty, and recognition of cultural diversity. These pillars must guide any discussions regarding the future of Germany’s military posture amid growing global tensions. For deeper insights into this evolving situation, an interview with Müller-Färber is available on the magazine „Zeitzeichen“.
Die hinter diesem Vorstoß stehende ethische Überlegung könnte als Hinweis auf die Notwendigkeit von Dialog und Kompromiss interpretiert werden, während die Welt sich in eine ungewisse Zukunft bewegt. Der Umgang mit diesen sensiblen Themen ist daher von enormer Bedeutung, um Frieden und Sicherheit in Europa und darüber hinaus zu gewährleisten.
