A concern is spreading among German naturists: The interest in shedding clothes is decreasing.
We will fight to keep every single naked person who wants to be with us, says naturist Alfred Sigloch to The Guardian.
The German naturists are becoming fewer and fewer. The umbrella organization for naturist groups, Deutscher Verband für Freikörperkultur (DFK), has lost over half of its members in the last 25 years. Many of those who are left have a dwindling interest in the movement, reports The Guardian.
Due to the lack of interest, the association, which advocates for nudity, is canceling its annual celebration of the movement's founding.
Generation conflict?
According to DFK's chairman Alfred Sigloch, the dwindling interest has several reasons. Partly a generation conflict where younger members have difficulty accepting older members' rules about, among other things, "time-limited nude sessions" or "quiet times".
The digital development can be another reason, according to Sigloch. Sneaky photos spread on social media and Tiktok ideals of the perfect body can lead to fewer people wanting to take off their clothes.
Germany is known as one of the world's most liberal countries when it comes to nudity. In parks and on beaches, there are often reserved areas for those who want to wear only their birthday suit.
Long-standing culture
The nude culture, naturism, began to spread in Germany in the late 19th century as a movement against materialism and industrialization. In the early 20th century, it was highlighted as a healthy alternative to the harmful and restrictive industrial life in cities.
During World War II, the movement was questioned by the Nazis. Decades later, in communist East Germany, it flourished. The population there was limited in terms of freedom of expression and movement, but could choose what they wanted to wear – or not – on beaches and campsites.
Despite the dwindling interest, persistent German naturists continue with nude activities. Among other things, an annual nude running competition in the spirit of naturism will be held for the 15th time in July, and a nude hike along the German North Sea coast in August.
The movement started in Germany and Switzerland around the turn of the last century.
It wasn't until after the First World War that naturism began to spread to other countries.
The International Naturist Federation was formed in 1954, and the Swedish branch, Sveriges Naturistförbund, three years later.
The purpose is to promote self-esteem, respect for others, and for the environment.
Source: National Encyclopedia
