"Democracies do not work if we do not work at a certain level, on the basis of reason and facts and logic - and not just of passion"
Obama said this at a gala in the Kongresshaus Baden-Baden on Thursday evening. In social networks, it is easy now for everyone to get his views confirmed - no matter how absurd they are. That is why it is now more important than ever to cultivate an independent journalism and to teach children how to assess and analyze information, Obama warned.
Former Federal President Joachim Gauck praised Obama in his laudatio as a courageous politician.
"No, you are not an unworldly idealist,"
Gauck said about the 55-year-old. Presidential Minister Winfried Kretschmann (Greens) thanked Obama personally for his struggle for freedom, human rights and democracy as well as against climate change. Obama has done a lot for international cohesion.
The founder of the prize, Karlheinz Kögel, called Obama a gifted political communicator and a world citizen who had taken people to a dream of a better world. In addition, Obama asked the Gala to open his first election victory. Obama described the success of his election campaign slogan "Yes we can" to his wife Michelle Obama.
"She gets the all recognition for this slogan - not me,"
Obama said. He himself was not convinced at first.
This year's 25th edition of the prize was awarded to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, the then UN Secretary-General. Also Chancellor Angela Merkel (CDU) and US actor George Clooney are among the former prizewinners. Since 1992, personalities have been honored, which from the perspective of the jury have significantly influenced and shaped society or politics.
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