Ware Freiheit

Norbert Fischbach

The core concept underlying all democratic ideals is freedom. «Ware Freiheit» (freedom as a commodity), examines the ongoing negotiation of freedom through images.

The stage for this exploration is Berlin, Germany’s capital, with its complex history of freedom. How much freedom are we willing to sacrifice for security? For the East German regime, the Berlin Wall was an “anti-fascist protective barrier,” but for GDR citizens, it was an insurmountable divide. Berlin symbolizes peaceful resistance, yet it is also a place where historical responsibility meets contemporary conflicts.

The October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks in Israel reignited global tensions, reflected in pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel demonstrations in Berlin. The city, with its political significance, mirrors global divisions. The police, representing state authority, are seen as protectors or oppressors, depending on perspective.

The 35th anniversary of the Berlin Wall’s fall highlights the hard-won freedom achieved through peaceful negotiation. The book examines Berlin’s historical sites—the Wall remnants, the former Stasi headquarters, and Hohenschönhausen prison—and personal reflections on reunification, bridging toward a shared understanding of freedom.

This collection expands on Berlin’s protests and the Wall’s legacy, portraying the ongoing struggle for freedom and unity. It contrasts physical and psychological barriers, from the Berlin Wall to Israel’s barrier. Current and archival images invite viewers to interpret these events, illustrating how the streets of Berlin continue to reflect these persistent global debates.

Norbert Fischbach