Condolence letter on death of Roman Herzog
Date:
Adam Bodnar, Commissioner for Human Rights sent a message of condolences to the Ambassador of Germany, on the death of Roman Herzog, former President of the German Federal Republic.
Your Excellency,
I have heard with profound regret the sad news about the death of Professor Roman Herzog.
Looking back at public activities of Professor Roman Herzog, I have always admired His high
moral standards in performing duties as the President of Germany between 1994 and 1999, as well as His
huge contribution to the modem history of the European Union. He shall be recognized as an outstanding
scholar, the author of numerous books and articles on constitutionalism, democracy, rule of law and
fundamental rights and the Chairman of the Federal Constitutional Court between 1987 and 1994. For me,
the German concept of Rechtsstaat will always have a face of Roman Herzog.
President Roman Herzog shall be remembered in Poland for his significant words addressed to the
Polish nation, pleading for forgiveness, during Polish celebrations of the 50th anniversary of the 1944
Warsaw Uprising. This important gesture has started a new era in diplomatic relations between Germany
and Poland and has given both nations a chance for a candid reconciliation.
As the Commissioner for Human Rights of the Republic of Poland I wish to emphasize the merits
of Professor Roman Herzog in drafting the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, as the
Chariman of the Convention that was responsible for the Charter’s shape. It is splendid that the Charter
is now legally binding and “living” instrument, acknowledging the EU citizens’ fundamental rights and
values of the EU legal order.
Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of such a prominent politician, judge and
scholar.
