The United Nations Children’s Fund UNICEF has released the song “Why War” (“Wozu sind Kriege da?”) by the legendary German rock singer Udo Lindenberg in a new international version. An English-language version performed by children, titled “What Is War For,” was released on Friday, November 1. Lindenberg, 78, is donating the proceeds of his reinterpretation royalties to the United Nations Children’s Fund to support the organization’s work to protect children in war zones, particularly in Ukraine, the Middle East and Sudan.
No stranger to horror!
As announced at a press conference in Cologne, the new recording is a call for better protection of children during wars and conflicts. “How loud should children scream to be heard? – German rock veteran Udo Lindenberg invites us to reflect – No child wants war, we shouldn’t get used to the horror, and that’s why the idea of doing a cover of the song was born song “Why War” with Halle!, Henri and Katarina for the whole world in English.”
He is supported by the head of UNICEF Germany, Christian Schneider, who notes: “Children are never enemies.” He thanked Lindenberg and the three children who performed the song for their contribution to strengthening the protection and care of children captured in war zones. “Today this is more important than ever,” he stressed.
The United Nations Children’s Fund addresses the problems and assistance of children who find themselves in adverse conditions, victims of wars and other types of violence and natural disasters. The German rock activist, with a musical career spanning more than half a century, has been campaigning for UNICEF since 2001.
The song could become a symbol of the protest movement
“No one wants to die… / So why the war? / President, do you know / What’s the matter? / Share the secret, why do the soldiers / Fight and kill people? / Why the war? These are the words to the song “Why War”, which Lindenberg wrote in 1981 and released as a duet with the then ten-year-old Pascal Kravetz. Talks about the horrors of war and a child’s rejection of it. A few years later, this anti-war composition was also performed at the XII World Festival of Youth and Students in Moscow, performed by Udo Lindenberg and Alla Pugacheva in German and Russian.
Udo Lindenberg and Alla Pugacheva in October 1986 in GermanyPhoto: Kai-Uwe Waerner/dpa/picture Alliance
Recalling this speech and answering a DW correspondent’s question whether the war could be stopped with a song, Lindenberg replied that “a song can be the musical accompaniment of a strong protest movement, which will deprive the crazed warmongers of power and he will chase them away from their positions with a broom.”
The international version of the song “Why Guerra” can be seen and heard for the first time on November 9th on the Saturday evening show “Die Giovanni Zarrella Show” or in the archives of the German television channel ZDF. The song is also available on streaming platforms and a video shot in Hamburg will be released.
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and welcome to our special interview segment! Today, we’re joined by Dr. Clara Fischer, a recognized expert in humanitarian emergencies and child protection. Thank you for being here, Dr. Fischer.
Dr. Clara Fischer: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right in. Recently, UNICEF launched Udo Lindenberg’s new international version of “Why War” alongside a children’s rendition titled “What Is War For.” How significant are initiatives like this in raising awareness about the plight of children in conflict zones?
Dr. Clara Fischer: These initiatives are incredibly significant. Music has a unique power to transcend barriers and speak to people’s hearts. Udo Lindenberg, a well-respected figure in music, is using his platform to amplify a critical message: children are often the most vulnerable victims in wars. By collaborating with children to perform a poignant song, they draw attention to their experiences and evoke empathy from listeners worldwide.
Time.news Editor: I absolutely agree. In the press conference, Lindenberg asked, “How loud should children scream to be heard?” It’s a striking rhetorical question. What do you think it signifies about the current state of children in conflict?
Dr. Clara Fischer: That question encapsulates the desperation and urgency of the situation. It emphasizes that despite the horrors of war, children’s voices are often drowned out by the sounds of conflict and political agendas. It serves as a challenge to society—are we truly listening? Are we doing enough to protect these innocent lives? It underscores the need for greater advocacy and action from world leaders.
Time.news Editor: Christian Schneider from UNICEF Germany highlighted that “children are never enemies.” How does this philosophy shape the approach of organizations like UNICEF in their efforts to protect children during conflicts?
Dr. Clara Fischer: It’s a fundamental principle of child protection. Viewing children as victims rather than enemies allows organizations to prioritize their rights and needs in conflict situations. This perspective fosters a humanitarian approach that seeks to safeguard children from violence, provide emotional support, and ensure access to education and healthcare—even in the most challenging environments.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of challenging environments, Lindenberg’s royalties from this song will directly support UNICEF’s work in areas like Ukraine and Sudan. How effective can monetary support be in making a real difference in these regions?
Dr. Clara Fischer: Financial support is crucial, especially in crisis situations. It enables organizations to deploy resources quickly, whether that means providing immediate food, shelter, or medical care, or longer-term initiatives such as education and psychosocial support. However, it’s important to pair funding with a thorough understanding of the local context and needs to ensure that aid is effective and meets the children’s needs directly.
Time.news Editor: Turning to the cultural impact, do you think “Why War” could transform into a rallying cry for the global protest movement against war, particularly regarding children’s rights?
Dr. Clara Fischer: Absolutely. Songs like “Why War” articulate a universal truth about the futility of violence and the impact of war on the most innocent. They have the potential to resonate deeply with people across nations and cultures. When a piece of art can provoke thought and inspire action, it often becomes part of a larger movement advocating for peaceful resolutions and children’s rights.
Time.news Editor: As we wrap up, what message do you believe the public should take from Lindenberg’s efforts and UNICEF’s initiatives regarding children in war?
Dr. Clara Fischer: The essential message is that we cannot turn a blind eye to the suffering of children in conflict. Each of us has a role to play—whether through advocacy, raising awareness, or supporting organizations working on the ground. The voices of children must be heard, and it’s our responsibility to ensure they are protected and given hope for a peaceful future.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Fischer, for your insights. It’s been a pleasure discussing this vital issue with you.
Dr. Clara Fischer: Thank you for having me! Let’s hope that through music and advocacy, we can foster a world where no child has to ask the question: “What is war for?”
Time.news Editor: Well said. Thank you again, and thank you to our viewers for tuning in!