Overview

• The 23rd anniversary of the 2002 Gutenberg-Gymnasium massacre was marked with a remembrance ceremony in Erfurt, Germany.
• Thuringia’s Minister President Mario Voigt highlighted the lasting emotional impact on survivors, families, and society, describing the wounds as deep and enduring.
• Voigt called on society and the state to strengthen efforts to prevent school violence and ensure educational institutions remain safe and trusting environments.
• The 2002 attack, carried out by a 19-year-old former student, claimed 16 lives, including 12 teachers, two students, a secretary, and a police officer, before the shooter took his own life.
• The massacre prompted nationwide reforms, including stricter gun regulations and improved school safety protocols, which remain a focus of annual commemorations.