The winner of the Mönchengladbach 2024 Benedict Prize is former German President Joachim Gauck. The Board of Trustees voted unanimously for Gauck.
As Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany, he has always stood up for justice, freedom and democracy, repeatedly raising awareness of the great value of freedom and emphasizing its link to responsibility.
Particularly in these times of crisis, which are unsettling for many people times of crisis: The former Federal President conveys clarification, confidence and courage – as an independent, experienced voice, level-headed and close to the people. With his attitude, which is based on the Christian values of our liberal democracy, and with his clear view of right and wrong, he creates trust in the strength of our democracy through positive messages and provides orientation with regard to the future viability of our society.
“The outstanding actions of the former Federal President in society, culture and politics on the basis of Christian and Western values are exemplary,” says Ulrich M. Harnacke, Chairman of the Board of the ‘Benediktpreis von Mönchengladbach’ association.
The award ceremony for Gauck will take place on December 5, 2024 in the Kaisersaal of Haus Erholung in Mönchengladbach.
