Germany is more closely linked to its neighboring countries than ever before in its history. We owe this proximity and exchange to the European Union, in which most European countries have joined forces politically and economically. Despite all its weaknesses and shortcomings, the EU is a political achievement that has brought peace to our continent with unprecedented sustainability. In the course of economic integration, the question of the fundamental values of the European Union has been raised time and again. We as the Humanist Association of Germany see it as our permanent task to take part in this discussion. We see it as our duty to contribute to the ongoing discourse on the convictions, values and standards that should form the basis of our coexistence in Europe.
Our humanistic perspective gives us a specific view of European history, the different cultural currents and the political framework conditions that have to ensure that we practice peace, that human rights are upheld, that solidarity and humanity are lived.
Humanistic solutions for global crises
In our current times, which are characterized by various global crises, it is important that we speak out: We must point out the potential that humanistic principles have to offer for a coexistence characterized by mutual respect and appreciation. These range from cooperation in the smallest local authorities to transnational political constellations. Based on our humanist convictions, we can pose questions to European policy and make suggestions.
We perform this task in a variety of ways. Through our membership of the European Humanist Federation (EHF), we strengthen the representation of humanist-minded Europeans in the various EU bodies. However, we also use our own activities to draw attention to issues that we believe are essential for a constructive and future-oriented European policy: the enforcement of human rights, a fair economic order, solidarity within and beyond the EU’s borders. Before the last elections to the European Parliament, we sent out election test stones to several parties. The issues of self-determination, the separation of state and religion and the equal treatment of religious and non-religious people in the public sphere were particularly important to us (Link).
Tolerance and diversity instead of nationalism and exclusion
Europe is currently facing a major challenge due to the many people who have sought and are still seeking refuge from war and hardship in recent years. Here too, the HVD has taken a public stand and formulated concrete ethical principles for a humane refugee policy (link “Humanist perspectives on refugee reception and policy”).
In addition, the HVD has participated several times in public appeals by civil society alliances. We want to repeatedly emphasize the need for European politics to demonstrate humanity, solidarity and acceptance of diversity, especially in times of crisis, and to resolutely oppose the rise of nationalist, racist and other inhumane ideas (links to the 2015 and 2016 appeals).
Especially now, when the coronavirus pandemic is exacerbating the existing crises, we in Europe must remember our common values! Above all, the concrete implementation of solidarity with the most affected countries must be our priority. By working together, we can alleviate the social and economic consequences of the pandemic and avoid similar crises in the future through even closer cooperation.