It was intended as a meeting against racism and fascism, but with the war in Ukraine and the upcoming municipal elections, the peace manifestation in Venlo mainly became a call to vote for parties that opt for connection.
Several speakers could be heard on the Flujasplein, including Talal Al Halabi of the Syrians for the Netherlands Foundation and mayor Christian Küsters of the German neighboring municipality of Nettetal.
Political parties
Various political parties, including Groen Links and Denk, were also present to underline their solidarity with the ideas against fascism and racism. “As a politician, we must send a signal to society that it is important that we take in refugees,” Lijsstrekker Wim Janssen of GroenLinks told the audience.
Party leader Selim Özçelik of Denk thought it was important that the parties were able to send out a signal by being present. After the speeches at the Flujasplein, the participants went to the World Peace Flame in Juliana Park.