Governance and citizenship

European towns and regions express their condolences and compassion to the victims’ families and to the citizens of Berlin after the attack that took place there.

Twelve people were killed and forty-eight others were injured in Berlin on 19 December, after a lorry drove into a crowd at a Christmas market.

CEMR secretary general, Frédéric Vallier, wanted to send a message of solidarity in these dark hours: “A new attack, a new bloodshed has taken place in a European city. Berlin, a symbol of freedom, is touched in its heart during this period that should be a celebration for all.

Just like in Paris in November 2015, in Brussels in March of this year or in Nice on 15 July, this new attack reminds us that the most precious item we hold is freedom. Fanatics want to take it away from us, and we will answer with fraternity – because today, just like yesterday, we are united by the same destiny and we can say: ‘Wir sind allen Berliner!’ ”

CEMR President Stefano Bonaccini sent a letter to the mayor of Berlin, Michael Müller, and to the presidents of CEMR’s German member associations, in order to extend the condolences and solidarity of all European local and regional leaders.