Security in focus: First Hambacher conversation demands clarity!

Security in focus: First Hambacher conversation demands clarity!

On Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 7 p.m. the first “Hambacher conversation” takes place in the Hambacher Castle. Under the title "No experiments!" the topic of security is the focus of the event. This series of talks aims to shed light on the relevant topic of security from different perspectives. In a world characterized by crises and wars, the relevance of this discussion is undeniable. As reported by the Rheinpfalz, the discussion participants are renowned personalities from science: Professor Elke Seefried from RWTH Aachen and Professor Eckart Conze from the Philipps University Marburg.

Admission to the event is free. Interested parties can register by email to hambacherspraech@hambacherschloss.de

meaning of the topic of security

This year, the series is specifically devoted to the concept of security, which is discussed as a basic need in Germany. The historical reference to the German security needs is clear by referring to Konrad Adenauer's campaign slogan during the 1957 Bundestag election when it received over 50 % of the votes - a record that has existed to this day. He illustrates how central security is in the political landscape of Germany.

The organizers, including the State Center for Political Education Rhineland-Palatinate, the Frank-Loeb Institute at the RPTU Kaiserslautern-Landau and the Hambacher Castle Foundation, emphasize the need to discuss questions about so-called "German Fear". In this regard, historical and psychological causes of uncertainty in Germany are discussed. Despite the general perception of Germany as one of the safest countries in the world, there are still concerns and uncertainties.

scientific perspectives on security

Scientific examination of security has become increasingly important in recent years. More and more research projects, such as the workshops at the Center for Contemporary History Research in Potsdam, deal with the historical dynamics of security production and the resulting social issues. The focus here is on the Nazi past of German Interior Ministries and the development of security measures in the context of the history of the two German states.

The planning of the "Hambacher conversation" further promotes this awareness. In view of the current international developments and the associated risks, the discussion about security is not only relevant, but also urgently required. Historical security research is considered necessary to find solutions for current social problems, as Eckart Conze made clear in its previous analyzes.