After the AfD victory in Saxony-Anhalt, the heads of the Christian confessions will closely monitor and critically assess the region’s respect for the rule of law. This’s a call to all Christians worldwide to pay attention.
In response to the results of the state election in Saxony-Anhalt, Bishop Kirsten Fehrs, Chair of the Council of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD); Bishop Dr. Heiner Wilmer, Chair of the German Catholic Bishops’ Conference (DBK); and Reverend Christopher Easthill, Chair of the Working Group of Christian Churches in Germany (ACK), issued the following statement:
We acknowledge that the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party has become the strongest party in Saxony-Anhalt by a wide margin. Our worst fears have come true, but we must accept the result. The Churches’ primary concern is the coexistence and cooperation of people in Saxony-Anhalt, particularly with regard to respect for God-given human dignity, to which everyone is entitled. However, we are also concerned about the free democratic basic order in Saxony-Anhalt. We call on the election winners to respect the State Constitution and the Federal Basic Law, upholding the dignity of all people regardless of origin, religion, way of life, achievements, or position.
As Churches, we are committed to the Gospel’s message and the Christian view of humanity. Based on this commitment, we will closely monitor and critically assess the political actions of the future state government. We will not look away or remain silent when human dignity is violated, democracy is threatened, or the rule of law is undermined. After all, it is always about people who are under pressure, threatened, or marginalized. We will continue to support everything that sustains our democracy and contributes to social cohesion. Above all, this requires spaces where people can come together for dialogue and mutual understanding. The democratic parties have a responsibility here. Churches can also serve as important places of encounter.
An election result is determined by the votes cast on Election Day. However, in everyday life, what holds this country together week after week matters even more. The election results show just how widespread dissatisfaction and a loss of trust are. This must be taken seriously. What remains unchanged is that hundreds of thousands of people in Saxony-Anhalt and across Germany care for one another, take responsibility, and sustain our community day after day. We want to continue highlighting and strengthening their confidence, willingness to help, and dedication. Together, we will continue working toward a society that holds together—in responsibility before God and humanity.
