"Vote - secure democracy and freedom!" This is the motto of an appeal in the run-up to the European elections on 9 June, one of the first signatories of which is Pirmin Spiegel, Managing Director of Misereor. Personalities from science, business, non-governmental organisations, municipalities, culture, sport, religious communities, trade unions, administration and politics have joined the appeal.

"Our democracy is threatened both from within and from without," the text reads. "Millions of people have made it clear in recent weeks that they will not accept this. They have demonstrated in favour of democracy, freedom and diversity. This gives us confidence and courage. We can only find answers to the major upheavals and crises of our time, which are unsettling many people, together and democratically. We need to listen to each other more, utilise the opportunities of freedom, strengthen social cohesion and further develop our common future in Europe. Democracy is the best social order for finding answers to all these questions. Democracy is not flawless - but we can always learn together democratically. Germany has come a long way. We are an economically successful country and we are valued partners worldwide. We have achieved this because we have treated each other and others well over the last few decades. We can be proud of that."

In favour of human dignity and a diverse society

The Managing Director of Misereor, Pirmin Spiegel, says: "The election appeal applies to all upcoming elections this year. At local, national and European level, important decisions will be made about how we live together in the future, at local, national, European and global level. There is a great danger that growing right-wing populist or far-right parties will attempt to appropriate democratic achievements in their favour. That is why it is so important that democratic parties remain politically responsible. Let us set an example: for human dignity and a diverse society."

The appeal concludes: "We call on all our fellow citizens: Go and vote - and vote for democratic parties! And get involved everywhere locally for tolerance and social cohesion."

Further information:

The text of the appeal can be found at Vote - Secure democracy and freedom!