New Year's appeal 2025 from District Administrator Jürgen van der Horst

The year 2024 is slowly drawing to a close and a new year is already in the starting blocks. In this year's New Year's appeal, District Administrator Jürgen van der Horst reviews the past 365 days - and also looks ahead to the new year 2025.

Ladies and gentlemen, dear fellow citizens,

The last days of the year have dawned and 2024 is slowly but surely drawing to a close. The past twelve months have been characterised by many events that have affected us not only as a district, but also as part of the global community. The geopolitical tensions that are increasing in different parts of the world have affected us all in different ways. Conflicts that seem far away have an impact on our daily lives - be it through rising energy prices, refugees seeking refuge and protection in our country or the challenges posed by the global economic situation and global political developments.

2024 was a year full of dynamic developments - worldwide. But the past year was also a special one for us at district level: our district celebrated its 50th birthday this year. In 1974, the old districts of Waldeck and Frankenberg became a single entity following a territorial reform by the state of Hesse. Over the past twelve months, we have celebrated this special anniversary with numerous activities - such as an anniversary bike tour, a large travelling exhibition and an anniversary celebration for all citizens.

Memories of the time of the merger came flooding back, but we were also able to hear numerous anecdotes and personal stories when we looked back at the history. Over time, what was initially a marriage of convenience has increasingly become a love story. Even if the new shared sense of home initially took time: Waldeck and Frankenberg have grown together as one without forgetting their traditions and roots. So this year we not only celebrated the merger of two administrative units - but above all the feeling of being at home, the community that has grown and our cohesion in Waldeck-Frankenberg.

This cohesion and a strong community also help us to a certain extent to deal with the uncertainties of the current times. In times of change - be it through economic challenges, political upheaval or crises - the true value of our community is revealed. By supporting each other, finding solutions together and acting in solidarity, we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead. Every single contribution counts, whether small or large.

Let us continue to cultivate dialogue, show consideration and always be there for each other in the coming year. Together we are stronger. Let us continue to uphold the values that unite us - solidarity, respect and tolerance. Each and every one of us can make a contribution to creating an environment in which everyone feels safe and welcome. Let's build bridges instead of walls.

With this in mind, I wish you and your loved ones a happy new year and a happy, healthy and peaceful new year.

With best wishes,
Jürgen van der Horst