In Slovakia, we commemorate the Gentle Revolution: Politicians’ words will surprise you! Link Čaputovej – Topky.sk

In the 32 years since the Gentle Revolution, the desire for a just state that will ensure a dignified life for all has failed. We are even more aware of this during political, economic or pandemic crises. This was stated by President Zuzana Čaputová in her speech on the anniversary of the Gentle Revolution at RTVS. Among other things, she highlighted the non-violent nature of the November events.

VIDEO In the 32 years since the Gentle Revolution, the desire for a just state has not been fulfilled, says Čaputová

“We all want to live again without restrictions and build our Slovakia. If only I believe that this common goal could unite us as it did 32 years ago,” she said. In connection with the pandemic, she reminded that freedom does not mean verbal and physical attacks on paramedics, doctors or saleswomen in shops. With the ethos and morality that society demonstrated in November 1989, we would be much more successful today in the fight against the pandemic and in coping with its effects. She reminded that people fought nonviolently for freedom for all, not just for themselves. “There was more to what united us than to the moments that divided us. Looking at today’s Slovakia, it is important to remember that we can be like that,” declared.

Source: Topky / Ján Zemiar

Especially now, according to the head of state, it is worth noting the non-violent nature of the November events. “As many people remember, the demonstrations took place in a peaceful way and it was unthinkable for the demonstrators to attack people, to reduce swearing or to show aggression.” recalled. According to the president, many are beginning to perceive the acquired freedom as a claim of an individual who can afford anything. “Freedom without responsibility, however, can also lead to the violent enforcement of the will at the expense of others. Freedom that is not based on laws and morals is a destructive force.” she said. According to her, freedom does not mean hatred towards groups of people with other opinions or minorities.

Source: TASR archive, wikipedia.org

According to the president, people who are the object of hatred should be encouraged. “They are involved, treating the sick or helping to make society better and our lives better in these areas. These people must not feel alone. I wish they could feel our support even more.” she stated. According to Čaputová, in addition to the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, we will also need to strengthen the prevention and treatment of our mutual relations. “This sad time will pass, but we as a nation, we as citizens of Slovakia will continue to live together here. Richer in the knowledge of our diversity and difference. revolution and heal Slovakia, “ concluded.

Source: TASR archive, wikipedia.org

President at the Gate of Freedom

On Wednesday morning, President Zuzana Čaputová laid a wreath at the Freedom Gate monument in Devín, Bratislava, on the occasion of the Day of the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy. She thanked the actors of the Gentle Revolution, as well as the “invisible” heroes who stood in the squares and contributed to the positive change. “This place, the Gate of Freedom, is reminiscent of the victims of a totalitarian regime. It reminds us of a terrible time that has meant the loss of human lives, the loss of personal freedom, whether for opinion, gathering, expression of political opinion or religion,” recalled the head of state.

VIDEO Čaputová laid a wreath at the Gate of Freedom: I want to thank all the actors of the Gentle Revolution

According to her, the democracy we live in today is not perfect. “A lot of people are not happy because they don’t have a dignified life,” she said. However, according to Čaputová, we have the right to assemble, speak, and vote. “The milestone between what was and what is now is November 17, the revolutionary times,” she said, thanking all the actors of the Gentle Revolution who had helped change.

Prime Minister: November 1989 and the then social consensus are the inspiration for today

November 1989 and the then social consensus to build a better and fairer country is a great inspiration for the present. Today, there is also a broad consensus in society to ensure equality before justice, a quality life worthy of the 21st century and a life without a custody. This was stated by the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic Eduard Heger (OĽANO) in a speech during Tuesday’s ceremonial event on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of the Gentle Revolution.

He praised the leaders of the Gentle Revolution, which he considered one of the greatest political and social reform events of the 20th century. “Without their courage, determination and enormous commitment, it would not be possible to overthrow communism. These are qualities that were and still are very valuable. And even today we need them to get Slovakia in shape.” he said.

Source: Topky / Vlado Anjel

He called the heroes of the Gentle Revolution an inspiration for today. “Let’s build on experience, join forces and never give up,” stressed the prime minister. Heger will perform on the occasion of the Day of the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy on Wednesday (November 17) at 8 pm at RTVS. As early as Tuesday at 8 pm, the President of the Slovak Republic, Zuzana Čaputová, addressed the public media with an address to the anniversary of the Gentle Revolution.

Naď called for a return to the values ​​of the Gentle Revolution

November 1989 showed the strength and unity of a society fighting for the values ​​of freedom and democracy. The Minister of Defense of the Slovak Republic Jaroslav Naď (OĽANO) stated this on Tuesday in Nitra at a memorial event on the occasion of the 32nd anniversary of November 17.

Source: Topky / Vlado Anjel

He also called for a return to the values ​​demanded by the people in the streets and squares during the Gentle Revolution. “Let’s remember that enthusiasm in anticipation of better tomorrows and start acting today to do so – responsibly and respectfully for the freedoms and rights of others. For example, the right to health.” Nothing said.

He also praised the initiative of the city of Nitra, which received fragments of the Berlin Wall. These are the basis of the local Freedom Monument, which realistically recalls the realities of totalitarian regimes. The commemorative event in Nitra took place with the participation of representatives of the Ministry of Defense, including the Armed Forces (OS) of the Slovak Republic, the municipality, the German Ambassador to the Slovak Republic Barbara Wolfová, the regional organization of the Confederation of Political Prisoners of Slovakia, journalists and academia.