Chemnitz is setting an example: Flag Day of the Mayors for Peace on July 8th

Chemnitz is setting an example: Flag Day of the Mayors for Peace on July 8th

On July 8, 2025 it will be that time again: On this day, the Chemnitz town hall will become the scene of an important symbol of peace. The flags of the Mayors for Peace are hoisted, and this is not just a simple flag display. There is a deeper message behind this action, which reminds us of the obligations under international law regarding nuclear disarmament. This day also commemorates the legal opinion of the International Court of Justice published on July 8, 1996. It noted that a serious effort to reduce nuclear weapons is necessary.

What is behind this international network? The Mayors for Peace was launched in 1982 by the mayor of Hiroshima and aims to abolish nuclear weapons and promote lasting peace. Today more than 8,480 cities in 166 countries are part of this network, including around 900 cities in Germany. Mayor Dr. Felix Schwenke, who orders the flagging at the town hall, uses the opportunity to emphasize the importance of disarmament rather than rearmament. “We have to remember the lessons from Hiroshima and Nagasaki,” said Schwenke.

Art for Peace

But that's not all! In collaboration with the Flag Day celebrations, the initiative is calling on children and young people aged 6 to 15 to take part in the art competition “What Peace Means to Me”. The best drawings should be delivered to the Chemnitz town hall by September 21, 2025 or sent to the address provided. Here the youngest children can give free rein to their creativity and deal with the topic of peace. A nice opportunity to develop an awareness of peace and disarmament at a young age.

There is a serious warning behind this commitment. The SIPRI informed that there are around 12,241 nuclear warheads worldwide and that all nine nuclear powers are modernizing their arsenals. A worrying trend that Dr. Schwenke criticized. The threats from nuclear weapons remain present, and the impending expiration of the New START Treaty between the United States and Russia with no sign of an extension reinforces these fears. “We must promote dialogue and work for a peaceful future,” appeals Schwenke.

The Mayors for Peace Flag Day is not only a remembrance of the past, but also a call for everyone to actively work for a peaceful and nuclear weapons-free future. Because, as they say: Every rain is followed by sunshine. Let us be guided by this hope and work together for peace!