The winner of the 2024 Benediktpreis of Mönchengladbach is former Federal President Joachim Gauck. The Board of Trustees chose Gauck unanimously.
As Federal President of the Federal Republic of Germany, he consistently championed justice, freedom, and democracy, repeatedly raising awareness of the great value of freedom while emphasizing its link to responsibility.
Particular emphasis was placed on his increased public contributions during these times of crisis, which have left many people feeling uncertain:
The former Federal President provides clarity, confidence, and courage—as an independent, experienced voice, level-headed and approachable. With an attitude rooted in the Christian values of our liberal democracy and a clear sense of right and wrong, his positive messages build trust in the strength of our democracy and offer guidance for the future viability of our society.
“The outstanding actions of the former Federal President in society, culture, and politics, based on 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 the Haus Erholung in Mönchengladbach.
