In response to the outcome of the referendum on Britain leaving the European Union Heinrich Bedford-Strohm, chair of the Council of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) said the following:

“The Evangelical Church in Germany deeply regrets the decision of the British people to leave the European Union. Now it will be necessary to analyse the reasons for this decision. The imminent departure of a country from the EU is a painful matter and must prompt us to drive the European peace project forward even more energetically. With our international ecumenical network, our churches will continue to work towards a united Europe based on solidarity. If it is confirmed that many young people, in particular, voted for the United Kingdom to stay in the European Union, we have a particular commitment not to flag in our dedication. Speaking for myself, I see young people as being the hope of Europe.”

Hanover/Berlin, 24 June 2016