18The Essentials

2025In 1967, Axel Springer formulated the first Essentials – “boundary markers of a tolerant worldview,” as he called them. They were:

• Commitment to the peaceful restoration of German unity, if possible within a united Europe.

• Reconciliation between Jews and Germans, including support for the right of the Israeli people to exist.

• Rejection of all forms of political totalitarianism.

• Defense of the free social market economy.

Over the decades, the Essentials have been adapted and expanded several times. Their clear and transparent stance, however, has remained unchanged. The current version of the Essentials was translated into graphics by Israeli artist Noma Bar. They are displayed at Axel Springer locations around the world.