vdp launches statement campaign for the European elections

Berlin, 2 May 2024

Members of Board of Directors speak out for Europe and strengthening of democracy

The Association of German Pfandbrief Banks (vdp) today launches a campaign to strengthen Europe and democracy. Over the next five weeks, in the run-up to the European Parliament elections on 9 June 2024, the vdp will publish 12 consecutive statements by the members of its Board of Directors to underscore the benefits of Europe and promote democracy and participation in the European elections.

The first statement, published today, is by Gero Bergmann, vdp President and Member of the BayernLB Board of Management. In his article, Bergman focuses on the central importance of promoting democratic principles and institutions to preserve peace in Europe. 

In the days and weeks ahead, the vdp will release the statements by the other members of the Board of Directors in the following order: Marc Oliver Heß (Aareal Bank), Sascha Klaus (Berlin Hyp), Matthias Schellenberg (apoBank), Dr Bettina Orlopp (Commerzbank), Thomas Köntgen (pbb), Christian Bonnen (Kreissparkasse Köln), Hans-Dieter Kemler (Helaba), Sabine Barthauer (DZ HYP), Dr Holger Horn (Münchener Hypothekenbank), Dr Matthias Danne (Deka Bank) and Jens Tolckmitt (vdp).

“We are committed to democracy, to the European Union and the values it represents.” Jens Tolckmitt

The Pfandbrief Banks stand for an open and democratic Europe. They operate in many European countries, where they utilise a true export hit – the Pfandbrief. 

“We are committed to democracy, to the European Union and the values it represents, such as respect, tolerance, diversity, humanity, equality, freedom of opinion and discourse,” vdp Chief Executive Tolckmitt pointed out. “That is why we are calling on people to participate in the European elections. Every vote counts.”

Tolckmitt went on to say that the numerous challenges we face today, notably the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East as well as other geopolitical risks, climate change, digitalisation and the uncertainties surrounding economic development, make this year’s European elections particularly important. “We need a strong Europe that is founded on the rule of law in order to secure peace, competitiveness, prosperity and social cohesion,” Tolckmitt emphasised.