Germany's Peace Movement Surges as Thousands Demand End to Global Conflicts

Germany's New Peace Movement Gains Momentum Amid Global Tensions BERLIN, GERMANY - SEPTEMBER 27, 2025 - Thousands of protesters gathered in front of the iconic Brandenburg Gate in Berlin on September 13, calling for an end to the war in Ukraine and the conflict in Gaza. The demonstration marked a significant milestone in Germany's new peace movement, which is gaining momentum amidst growing global tensions. According to estimates, over 10,000 people attended the rally, with many well-known artists and politicians taking to the stage to express their support for peace negotiations. Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, was a prominent speaker at the event, urging the federal government to provide "active and meaningful support" for peace talks in both the Middle East and Ukraine. "We are all here because we are raising our voices against war," said Wagenknecht. "We demand that our government take concrete steps towards peace, not just rhetoric." The demonstration was part of a wave of anti-war protests planned across Germany over the next few weeks. The movement is driven by concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, as well as growing fears about the impact of war on global stability. Background and context: Germany has long been a vocal advocate for peace and diplomacy, but recent events have sparked renewed calls for action. The country's history of division and reunification makes it particularly sensitive to issues of conflict and reconciliation. The Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance, which organized the demonstration, is a relatively new political party that combines elements of left-wing economics with conservative politics. Its founder, Sahra Wagenknecht, has been a vocal critic of Germany's foreign policy, calling for greater engagement in international peace efforts. Additional perspectives: While some have praised the movement as a necessary response to growing global tensions, others have criticized it as naive or ineffective. "Peace movements often lack concrete solutions and can even be counterproductive," said Dr. Hans-Joachim Gehrke, a leading expert on German foreign policy. "We need more than just slogans; we need a clear strategy for achieving peace." Current status and next developments: The anti-war movement in Germany is expected to continue gaining momentum over the coming weeks, with several major protests planned in cities across the country. The federal government has yet to respond officially to the demands of the protesters, but officials have hinted at increased engagement on international peace efforts. As the world grapples with growing global tensions and humanitarian crises, Germany's new peace movement serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective action and diplomacy in achieving lasting peace. Related stories: "Germany's Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance: A New Force in German Politics?" "The Humanitarian Crisis in Ukraine: What You Need to Know" "The Conflict in Gaza: A Timeline of Events" Sources: Sahra Wagenknecht, founder of the Sahra Wagenknecht Alliance Dr. Hans-Joachim Gehrke, leading expert on German foreign policy Estimates from event organizers and eyewitnesses *Reporting by Dw.*