German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier joined young delegates from around the globe to close histoCON 2025 on a day of profound historical significance—Victory in Europe Day (VE Day). His presence at the event’s final day, held at Berlin’s Alte Münze, added weight to a week already rich with conversation, creativity, and critical reflection.
The youth-centered history convention, hosted by Germany’s Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb), gathered over 100 participants aged 18 to 27 from over 60 countries. Under the theme “80 Years On: Young Perspectives on the Global Impact of WWII – Look Back, Think Ahead,” the four-day event ran from May 5 to May 8, intentionally concluding on VE Day, which marks the anniversary of Nazi Germany’s surrender in 1945 and the end of World War II in Europe.
A Presidential Call for Active Remembrance
On the climax of histoCON 2025, President Steinmeier delivered an address emphasizing the importance of remembrance. He urged the younger generation to view history not as a closed chapter but as a living tool for shaping a more just and peaceful world. “Remembering the past is not enough,” he stated. “It must inspire us to act—against hatred, against violence, and for democracy.”
His remarks resonated deeply, particularly as similar commemorations were held across Europe earlier that day.
Following his speech, the president toured an exhibition of photographs curated by participants, showcasing their personal connections to WWII. The event fostered a platform for young voices to engage with history, ensuring that the lessons of the past remain relevant in today’s global landscape.
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