Head of Diakonie deplores mercilessness in society

The head of Diakonie in Saxony, Dietrich Bauer, bemoans a brutalization of social debate. "There is a certain mercilessness in society," he told the German Press Agency. Verbal attacks on politicians are increasing, especially on social media. They are rigorously punished for formulaic statements. "If they make an inaccuracy or a mistake, it's 100 percent illuminated. But part of lively communication is being able to make mistakes."

Simple and quick solutions to complex problems impossible

"I admire everyone who takes on responsibility in politics today. Basically, they cannot expect to be successful in the short term, because many processes are very complex and long-term," explained the 65-year-old senior church councillor. In a democratic society, they have to be negotiated with the participation of many. It is neither helpful nor realistic to insist on quick and easy solutions. "This raises completely false expectations."

Diakonie wants to contribute to the objectification of debates

Bauer: "As a democratic society, we are dependent on open communication." Unfortunately, politics in some parties has taken on an exuberant form of staging. There are members of the Bundestag whose speeches are geared towards social media channels. "These 30 seconds are supposed to send a message, make it marketable. That doesn't work with complex issues. As Diakonie, we see it as our task to get involved in these debates and contribute to objectification. Social issues concern us all."