Germany and Yugoslavia

Slobodan Dimitrov of the Serbian-American Community Relations Coalition, Los Angeles, finds it necessary to warn his American fellow citizens in a letter (July 1) to not trust German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, regarding his remarks on a delay of European unification (June 18).

Dimitrov refers mainly to the German past and to a German “engagement” in the war in Yugoslavia. I can understand that Dimitrov as a Serbian was angered by the German decision to recognize an independent Croatia. I considered this move one possible attempt to bring this senseless war to an end.

As a 40-year-old German, I can assure him that the majority of the Germans are very alert to whatever happens in the context of European unification. We do have the stains of past crimes, committed by German minds, hands and weapons, not only on our laundry, but in our hearts and souls. But we have proceeded in a learning process about our terrible history from merely being ashamed to mourn deeply what happened to Jewish people, Gypsies, gays and other victims of the Third Reich, including Germans who died believing what they were fighting for was right.

For 35 years of my life I had to deal every day with our dark legacy, and so did most Germans. We were taught constantly to live in friendship, love and understanding with people of all colors, nations and religions. We are the ones who will not allow history to repeat itself.

Looking at our past should teach us to find better ways for the present and future. Getting over his hate might help Dimitrov to see the bloodstains in Yugoslavia now. Please use your energy to stop the butchering there, Mr. Dimitrov, before it is too late for both Serbia and Croatia.

Besides, Tyler Marshall’s article was very clear and honest about Germany’s interest in European unification, and that has absolutely nothing to do with Anschluss .

GABRIELE LANDWEHR

Deputy Director, Goethe-Institut

German Cultural Institute

Beverly Hills