Reason #16 Why I Love Germany: Stuttgart 21 Protests

Stuttgart 21 is a large construction project that will make Stuttgart a central rail link between Western and Eastern Europe (see the history of Stuttgart 21) but Stuttgart 21 is surrounded in controversy regarding the costly project (a projected cool 4 billion euro, the 10 year time line and the demolition of part of the historic Haupbahnhof).  Stuttgart 21 protestors (mostly peaceful) have been coming out in the tens of thousands for months.  When part of the Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) was demolished for the Stuttgart 21 project the protestors didn't give up, they came out in even larger droves, reaching over 30,000 protestors.  When 300 trees were to be cut to make room for Stuttgart 21, 30,000 protestors came out yet again.

Stuttgart 21 protesters at the demise of part of the historic Hauptbahnhof

 I admire that despite the government staying the course for the Stuttgart 21 project, Stuttgarter's have not given up, they are adamant that their voices be heard.  And finally their voices are being heard and there are now talks to revise the Stuttgart 21 project.  I admire this political advocacy, perhaps because I have not seen it in such full force before.  30,000 protestors for a city with a population of just over 600,000 inhabitants is rather impressive in my opinion.  Germans are known to be opinionated and occasionally argumentative, but it is these very traits and their willingness to stand up for what they believe in, that just may very well change the future of the Stuttgart 21 project and is another reason why I love Germany.  If you love Germany, check out Expat in Germany.

Stuttgart 21 protesters top photo courtesy of:  The Local
Stuttgart 21 protesters second photo courtesy of:  noinvite.com