Sober Words on War -- and a Call for Social Change

In his annual New Year's address, German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder reiterated his anti-war stance while acknowledging that war is sometimes needed to stop dictators. He also called for continued social and economic reforms, which he said are crucial for the future of Germany.

"Because of our history, Germany must seek out alternatives to war," Schröder said in the televised speech. "We Germans know from our own experience that sometimes only violence can stop dictators. But we also know what bombs, destruction and losses at home mean for people."

Therefore, said Schröder, "it remains the goal of my policy to carry out the U.N. resolution without resulting in war" against Iraq.

Anti-war stance aided re-election

Schröder, a Social Democrat, was elected to a second term in September in part because of his promise to oppose a potential war with Iraq. His stance strained relations with the United States.

Besides this controversial issue, Schröder focused on the need for Germany to make changes in its social welfare system amidst a growing budget crisis.

"We can only maintain our prosperity, our social security, our good schools, streets and hospitals -- that so many people envy -- if we gather our strength and together find the courage to make fundamental change."

Already, Schröder's govenment has begun making changes in labor law and in the country's retirement system. In addition, Schröder called for Germans to take more personal responsibility for making changes that are crucial at a time when a weak economy is forcing the government to rein in spending.

Opportunity comes with responsibility

A social system means that "everyone has the same chances. But that also means that everyone has the duty to use these chances. Anyone who abuses solidarity, puts our social system in danger."

Reforms designed to make it easier for Germans to go to work are set to kick in with the new year. "Nobody who wants to work should be stopped from doing it because of bureaucratic rules. And no one who can work should flee to illegal jobs."

Schröder also spoke of Germany's key role in a newly united Europe, in which 10 new states – including German neighbors Poland and the Czech Republic – are poised to join the European Union.

"Something that our forefathers could only dream of – the prospect of building a united Europe – is now within our grasp. That helps us politically and offers new possibilities for business.

"We can all take part in making Europe a continent of peace, freedom and prosperity."