The Weltoffenes Thüringen alliance was founded in Weimar a few months ago. With the aim of peaceful and respectful coexistence and a clear commitment to democracy and the rule of law, it forms the antithesis to increasingly right-wing extremist and misanthropic ideologies in the run-up to the state, local and European elections in Thuringia.
More than 1,000 companies and stakeholders from the fields of culture and education, sport, churches, trade unions, charities and countless individuals from Jena have now joined the initiative. Across Thuringia, there are almost 7,000 supporters of the initiative.
We at Work in Jena also take a clear stance in favour of cosmopolitanism, diversity and tolerance. The Jena Economic Development Agency under Managing Director Wilfried Röpke was one of the first to sign the initiative. “The technology region of Jena thrives on its internationality, innovative strength and global networking: in times of demographic change, our city can only remain attractive for companies, investors and skilled workers if we as a society welcome diversity in all its facets,” says Röpke. With a view to the upcoming state elections in September 2024, Röpke fears the impending damage, especially for the economic and scientific region of Jena. If far-right parties were to gain a majority in Thuringia, this would further exacerbate the shortage of skilled labour and threaten an exodus of bright minds.
“It’s about our democracy, it’s about the basic social consensus on values, humanity and diversity. This consensus is being denounced by far-right parties.”
Wilfried Röpke
Weltoffenes Thüringen – what does the initiative stand for?
- For a cosmopolitan and diverse Thuringia.
- For respect for human dignity and indivisible human rights – also in view of Germany’s historical responsibility, especially for the crimes committed during the National Socialist era.
- For pluralistic democracy and the rule of law – also as a lesson learnt from the experiences of two different dictatorships in Germany.
- For a country in which people are accepted and welcome in their diversity.
- In favour of peaceful and respectful interaction with one another. Prejudice, marginalisation and hatred have no place in a cosmopolitan and diverse Thuringia.
- In favour of the idea of European unification. It stands for peace, solidarity and prosperity. Thuringia benefits from this in particular.
There are numerous opportunities for private individuals, companies and organisations in Jena and the region to get involved in democratic coexistence. We welcome these initiatives and encourage everyone to get involved. A small selection of initiatives:
