Wolfgang Thierse Calls for Greater Civic Responsibility in Berlin

The former Bundestag president criticizes Berlin residents for neglecting their city and urges newcomers to develop a deeper connection to it.

Wolfgang Thierse, former Bundestag president and SPD politician, has expressed concern over a lack of civic responsibility among Berlin residents.
Thierse criticized citizens for contributing to citywide issues like littering and the decline of vibrant city centers, rather than blaming the government alone.
He highlighted the loss of Berlin's historically conscious bourgeoisie, many of whom were Jewish and perished during the Nazi era, as a factor in the city's changing civic culture.
Thierse urged newcomers to Berlin to cultivate a sense of belonging and curiosity about the city's history, rather than treating their time there as transitory.
He emphasized that while no one is obligated to stay in Berlin permanently, fostering a connection to the city benefits both individuals and the community as a whole.