Since the beginning of 2020, the coronavirus pandemic has claimed the lives of almost 60,000 people in Germany alone. Many have not been able to say goodbye to their loved ones and friends due to the restrictions and it is difficult to mourn appropriately. As a result, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called for a central memorial service on 18 April 2021 to remember those who have died. The municipality of Rüdersdorf near Berlin is also flying its flags at half-mast in front of the town hall on this day.
Mayor Sabine Löser explains: "We are aware of the contradiction of already mourning, even though we know that people are still falling ill and dying as a result of the pandemic. It is the task of all state institutions, but also of every individual, to do everything possible to get the pandemic under control as quickly as possible. By vaccinating, testing and keeping our distance. Together we can and will succeed."