Wir2030

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Explanation and justification

Every person is born as a free and independent being – with inalienable dignity, a will of their own and a natural right to self-determination. This fundamental concept of humanity forms the starting point for all liberal-democratic considerations and is deeply rooted in the principles of the Enlightenment, human rights and numerous constitutions.

But in the modern world, we are increasingly experiencing a reversal of this principle: people are often treated as if they were the property of others – whether by overbearing states that want to decide over their bodies, thoughts and lifestyles, or by global corporations that instrumentalize their data, labour, attention and health for profit.

This thesis reminds us that freedom is not granted, but must be assumed. People are not objects to be managed by bureaucracies, consumers to be exploited by markets or citizens to be brought into line by ideologies. He is a subject – a creative, thinking, feeling being who is able to take responsibility for himself and others.

Legal and philosophical roots

This view has deep historical roots:

• In the Enlightenment, Jean-Jacques Rousseau declared: “Man is born free, and everywhere he lies in chains.”
• Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) states: “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.”
• The German Basic Law begins with: “Human dignity is inviolable.” – not: “The duties of man towards the state are inviolable.”

Freedom is therefore not an act of mercy by the government, but a pre-state fact. The state must subordinate itself to this fact – not the other way around.

Why this thesis is more important today than ever

At a time when citizens are being systematically disempowered by digital surveillance, censorship, health coercion, algorithmic control and economic dependencies, it is essential to reflect on these origins. Because without a clear commitment to the freedom of the individual, democracy, science, medicine and law lose their legitimacy.

We2030 is resolutely opposed to any form of disenfranchisement. This first thesis is the foundation for all others. Because those who do not recognize human freedom cannot build a just, liveable or sustainable society.