According to the Conference of Mayors, the restrictions on public and private life have led to a decline in the number of infections. At the same time, mutations of the coronavirus are spreading rapidly; some even fear a third wave.

Special care and attention is required for elderly and previously ill people as well as people for whom contact restrictions with other people are difficult or impossible in the course of their professional activities.

On the other hand, the Lord Mayors' Conference notes with great concern the situation of children and young people, the sports and cultural sector, the retail trade and the economy as a whole. Forecasts predict that a large number of businesses will have to file for insolvency in 2021.

For this reason, the federal and state governments must provide sustainable support, particularly to the retail sector and local authorities. If the federal and state governments act hesitantly, there will be no need for more funding, because then the lights will literally "go out" in city centers due to the coronavirus pandemic.

After weeks of lockdown, the mood among the population threatens to change. However, we will continue to experience intense restrictions for quite some time, probably throughout 2021. Opening steps and a return to 'normal' life are therefore necessary, but they must be taken very responsibly.

The full appeal of the Conference of Lord Mayors can be viewed below.