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EKD Synod Opens in Dresden With Pivot on Peace Ethics and Warning on AfD

Fehrs frames a tougher security ethic as necessary in a changed threat landscape.

Overview

  • EKD Council Chair Kirsten Fehrs urged a firm defense of democratic norms and sharply criticized the AfD, signaling sympathy for calls to consider a party ban.
  • A new Friedensdenkschrift will be presented Monday that links security and peace ethics, accepts deterrence under certain conditions, and retains the goal of a just peace.
  • The church parliament convenes November 9–12 in Dresden under the theme “Kirche und Macht,” with debates spanning policy, budget, and church law.
  • Addressing sexualized violence remains a priority, with the Beteiligungsforum scheduled to deliver its report Tuesday and leadership stressing accountability and prevention.
  • Leaders confronted structural strain from steep membership losses, including a proposal that could shrink the Synod from 128 to 98 delegates, with its passage still unclear.