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May 8th Public Holiday Proposal in Thuringia
A proposal in Thuringia's parliament seeks to make May 8th (Victory in Europe Day) a one-time public holiday in 2025 to commemorate the end of WWII and combat rising right-wing extremism. The proposal faces mixed reactions from other parties.
German
Germany
PoliticsGermany Labour MarketHistoryExtremismCommemoration
The Left PartySpdCduAfdDpa
Christian SchaftMatthias HeyLennart GeibertSteffen QuasebarthSascha Schlösser
- What is the current status and the likely future of this proposal?
- The proposal's fate is uncertain. Although it will be discussed further in a relevant committee after receiving support from all parties except the AfD, securing enough votes for the proposal's passage into law is not guaranteed.
- What is the main proposal put forth by the Left party in Thuringia?
- The Left party in Thuringia, Germany, proposed making May 8th, the anniversary of the end of Nazi rule, a public holiday in 2025. This proposal is intended as a commemoration and a stand against rising right-wing ideologies.
- What is the current status of May 8th as a commemorative day in Thuringia?
- Currently, May 8th is a day of remembrance in Thuringia, not a public holiday. The proposal seeks to elevate its status in light of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, creating a unique one-time public holiday in 2025.
- What is the symbolic significance of the proposed public holiday for the Left party?
- The Left party believes that declaring May 8th a public holiday would send a powerful message against resurgent racism, antisemitism, and right-wing extremism in Germany and Europe. They see it as an opportunity for reflection and a reminder of the importance of vigilance.
- Which political parties support and oppose the proposal, and what are their respective arguments?
- While the SPD supports the proposal, the CDU expressed reservations, viewing May 8th as a day for remembrance, not celebration. The AfD rejected the proposal entirely, citing the multifaceted nature of the date's significance.