Lübeck - The Green Party of Germany launched its 2025 federal election campaign on January 6, 2025, at the Music and Congress Hall, and the turnout was far beyond expectations. According to reports, party chancellor candidate Robert Habeck mentioned, "If we get 500 people, we can be satisfied," reflecting initial expectations. Yet, the reality was astonishing; the event had to be delayed because, as stated, "thousands were still waiting outside." Apparently, Habeck's appeal was as popular as free fish sandwiches among attendees.
Habeck, hailing from Schleswig-Holstein, showcased substantial support from local constituents. The audience, judging by the applause, was mostly made up of party supporters eager to hear from their leaders. The kick-off marked the party's official entry to campaigning, promising to address pressing issues facing Germany. Initially, it was Luise Amtsberg, the party's top candidate for Schleswig-Holstein, who addressed the crowd, asserting, "Our democracy is under pressure from inside and outside," warning implicitly against aligning with tech millionaires, citing no names.
Following her, co-chair Felix Banaszak took to the stage, expressing the belief there would be one figure capable of resolving Germany's problems: "That is Robert Habeck." Annalena Baerbock, former chancellor candidate and the party's foreign minister, also highlighted the importance of the upcoming elections, linking the party's previous slogans and successes with current issues.
Habeck's speech mainly focused on promoting his consensus-oriented approach, criticizing the concept of 'exclusionism' prevalent among current political debates. He used the example of Austria, where right-wing populism has gained ground, as a cautionary tale for Germany. Insisting on the need for investment for the country’s future, Habeck stressed the importance of taking on debts to enable economic growth, directly confronting the opposition with assertions such as the Union’s statements about managing investments without new debt being mere "flunkerkanone" - or blustering nonsense.
The Green Party's emphasis on economic vitality came at the cost of more nuanced discussions on climate issues, as Habeck’s mention of climate policies was noticeably succinct. He assured the audience about soil pollution being countered through the transformation to renewable energy sources, promising cheaper energy prices for the future.
A lively atmosphere characterized the campaign launch, akin to the fervor seen at pop concerts. The hall, which accommodates 800, saw more than 1,200 attendants squeezing through hallways and utilized unconventional spaces as waiting areas. While many cheered for Habeck’s vision, some dissenters occasionally interrupted, making their voices heard with remarks of "buh" and "lies."
Habeck condemned unions and other established parties, subtly calling attention to some prominent political figures without naming them, insisting on the importance of presenting coherent policies. He reiterated the need to support social justice and innovation – sentiments echoed by fellow party members who articulated their commitment to responding to pressing civic concerns.
This kickoff event garnered significant local attention, with many identifying it as just the beginning of intense campaigning leading up to the Bundestagswahl on February 23. Observers opine the event's excitement and Habeck's delivery suggest the potential for invigorated support for the party. The Greens had previously faced challenges during the 2021 elections but are now determined to relaunch with energy, framing themselves as responsible stewards intent on addressing everyday life issues compellingly.
With the balance of power increasingly contested, Banaszak noted, "This election will be a directional decision," focusing on how current policies affect everyday Germans. Baerbock stressed the need for justice not just within the nation but across Europe, urging for resilience amid challenging global dynamics.
Despite some logistical challenges on the ground, as organizers planned for 600 but dealing with considerably larger crowds, the Green Party's campaign kickoff meeting left many with palpable excitement. The event culminated after 90 minutes, wrapping up amid energetic applause, with strong indications of support – but also reminders of the challenges still to come as the election date approaches.