The death of Bernhard Vogel is associated with the memory of an extraordinary, in many respects unique political biography. The political scientist actually wanted to stay at university. His candidacy for the German Bundestag in 1965 was unplanned - because he believed that four years in politics could be an advantage. But after less than two years, he was appointed Minister for Education in Rhineland-Palatinate. Numerous political and social posts and functions followed, some of which more than once. Twice he was CDU state chairman - in Rhineland-Palatinate and Thuringia; twice a member of the state parliament - in Mainz and Erfurt; twice Minister-President - of Rhineland-Palatinate and the Free State of Thuringia; twice Chairman of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, most recently its Honorary Chairman. He was the head of state government with the longest term in office in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany; one of the most experienced, the most popular and the only one to hold government responsibility in both a West and an East German state.
Bernhard Vogel combined politics with humanity in an unparalleled way. He brought people together, explained politics to them, took them along on the path of politics, offered them orientation and direction. His convictions and decisions were based on the Christian view of humanity and the sanctity of human dignity, Catholic social teaching, and the fundamental values of our constitution. His thoughts and actions were guided by these values, and his fulfilment of duty and passion, his farsightedness combined with confidence, his optimism combined with realism, his adherence to principles and values were based on them. They made Bernhard Vogel an exceptional politician.
On the occasion of Bernhard Vogel's passing, the Chairman of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Prof. Dr. Norbert Lammert, said: ‘In Rhineland-Palatinate as in Thuringia, Bernhard Vogel set an example of a democratic culture of debate through his clear orientation and respect for his political opponents, and made a lasting contribution to the growing together of our reunified country. This also characterised his many years of work as Chairman of the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung.’
He will be remembered by many as a person, as a politician, and as Chairman of our foundation. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung will honour his legacy.