“We are gathered here on the market square – it is the best place for our campaign because many Europeans have already stood on the town hall staircase in support of Europe, back when it wasn’t obvious”, explained Peter Ruhenstroth-Bauer, one of the organisers. The SPD politician emphasised the non-party affiliation of the demonstration: “The Jusos (Young Socialists) have just rolled out their flags, that’s great, because it’s about something more important, it’s about Europe”. On the improvised stage he said, "there are voices in Europe who are setting up borders and building fences again, Pulse of Europe wants to show that not everyone thinks like this.”

"It’s all very improvised here", admitted one of the organisers Stefan Hahn. "We decided on it on the spur of the moment last Sunday." The demonstration ended with a human chain which fenced across the square. The participants also sung the European national anthem – although the words had been adapted and called on the Dutch to vote in favour of Europe in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Christian Klatt, 27, came across the demonstration by chance and said “I think it is important to show one’s support”. “It’s not a great effort to take part in such a demonstration but the message which is shows is great." Deacon Klaus Behne also took part in the demonstration. “I worry about our children and our grandchildren”, said the 77 year old. "Europe must become more vibrant and more democratic." The problem, he believes, is that the EU gives the impression that the “Bureaucrats of Brussels” are ignoring people’s concerns.

People have already been demonstrating in support of Europe in 35 German cities every Sunday between 2pm and 3pm. At first there were two separate Pulse of Europe groups active in Bonn.

(Original text: Alexander Grantl. Translation: Caroline Payne)