Five individuals tragically pass away on New Year's Eve.
In the heart of Berlin, the city that never sleeps, New Year's Eve celebrations took a more peaceful turn this year. According to the police, nearly 400 people were arrested across the city, a significant decrease compared to previous years.
The decrease in violence was evident as those arrested were primarily involved in throwing fireworks or rockets at people, and in extreme cases, setting cars and trash cans alight. However, the police reported that firework-free zones established in Berlin helped to maintain order.
Traditionally, New Year's Eve celebrations in Berlin, and indeed across Germany, take place in the evening and at night. Revellers often enjoy the festivities by shooting fireworks into the sky, a spectacle that lights up the city, and by drinking champagne.
Amidst the festivities, Olaf Scholz, the current Federal Chancellor of Germany, gave a New Year's speech. In his address, Scholz emphasised the importance of togetherness in Germany and expressed hope that 2025 could be a good year for the country.
Scholz also highlighted an important target for the year: combating climate injustice. On New Year's Day 2025, he reiterated this commitment in his speech, stating that it would be a key focus for the German government.
As the clock struck midnight and the new year began, Berliners and Germans across the country looked forward to a peaceful and prosperous 2025. New Year's Eve, the last day of the year, marked the end of a challenging year and the start of a new chapter.
