Deutsche Gesellschaft e.V.

The Deutsche Gesellschaft e. V. is the first all-German civil society organisation founded after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Although initial attempts to establish a German-German friendship society were made as early as 1983, these efforts failed due to opposition from the SED regime. The idea was revived during the peaceful revolution of 1989, and on 13 January 1990, the association was founded in Berlin’s Nikolaikirche.

Since then, the organisation has promoted mutual understanding between East and West and worked to overcome prejudices. It actively addresses current and future challenges in Germany and Europe.

With over 700 events annually, the association is one of the most active non-partisan organisations in Germany. Its activities span politics and history, culture and society, as well as the EU and Europe. In more than 20 European countries, the association fosters democracy and international understanding.

Founding members include prominent figures such as Egon Bahr, Bärbel Bohley, Willy Brandt, Günter de Bruyn, Armin Mueller-Stahl and Heiner Müller. Current board and advisory council members include leading personalities from politics, business and culture, among them Angela Merkel, Wolfgang Thierse, Franz Müntefering, and Friede Springer.

Through forums, discussion groups, seminars, conferences, study trips, exchange programmes, readings and exhibitions, the Deutsche Gesellschaft e. V. offers citizens opportunities for open discourse on key socio-political issues. It also hosts the European Information Centre Jean Monnet Berlin.

Notable projects include public engagement with the Freedom and Unity Monument in Berlin, academic competitions, German-Lithuanian study tours, initiatives on Jewish cultural heritage, and efforts to preserve cultural and historical landmarks.