Bundeswehr Day in Osterholz: Protests and large number of visitors expected!

Bundeswehr Day in Osterholz: Protests and large number of visitors expected!

Osterholz-Scharmbeck, Deutschland - The Bundeswehr's day moves closer and with it a lively exchange about the role of the armed forces in the current political landscape. On June 28, the Bundeswehr will open its doors in Osterholz-Scharmbeck and expects more than 25,000 visitors. This number is a significant increase compared to the 10,000 visitors of the previous year. The focus of the event will be on interactive promotions and live demonstrations, in which all areas of the Bundeswehr, from armies to marine to Air Force, will be represented. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasizes that the soldiers play a central role in society and as a guarantee for peace and security. After Russia's attack on Ukraine, however, the Bundeswehr's reputation has increased, which at the same time makes new critical voices loud. Critics argue that these funds should be better invested in social projects instead of in military upgrading.

On June 28th, a colorful program will be offered that ranges from vehicle and aircraft demonstrations to a stage program with music. Among other things, the famous Bundeswehr heir soup ensures culinary pleasure. At the end of June, the Bundeswehr gives an overview of various career and is available with contact persons. Parking is provided outside the barracks area, and a free bus shuttle is offered from the train station to the barracks.

protest movements and critical voices

The veteran day, which is celebrated for the first time nationwide, triggered protests in Berlin last Sunday, but also throughout Germany. An antimilitarian alliance protests against the festivities, while in Berlin streets and in 13 other cities fake Bundeswehr posters with critical messages have appeared. According to reports from ND-Aktuell, only about 400 people took part in the protest in Berlin, possibly influenced by the high summer temperature. There were also demonstrations against a reservist appeal in Vechta.

The protests were organized, among other things, by the DFG-VK, the anti-militaristic action network. Some of the participants wore creative works of art and tried to raise awareness of their anti -militaristic concerns. Red premiums primarily addressed the resistance to militarization at universities and the problem of converting civilian production facilities into the armaments industry. Daniel Lücking, a veteran and author, also criticized the lack of support for injured veterans, who are often in shade in social discourse and often do not receive the attention that other professional groups enjoy.

As the Veteran Day's events are considered by Warte as a whole, it remains to be seen. However, the Bundeswehr's day stands for military strength, but also for a social concern: the debate about the right use of funds and the question of how to find a balance between legitimation of the forces and social needs is more relevant than ever given the current geopolitical tensions. The Bundeswehr itself has the goal of creating a better image and strengthening the connection to society.

The Bundeswehr's day in Osterholz-Scharmbeck is an important moment for both the support and the critical voices around the Bundeswehr.