Germany Won't Lie Down for ME/CFS

Thousands across 27 cities take to the streets – lying down – to represent the invisible struggles of a debilitating disease

Berlin, Germany – May 12, 2025 — In a powerful display of solidarity and awareness, citizens in 27 cities across Germany staged “lying demonstrations” this week to spotlight the ongoing crisis surrounding Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). The demonstrations, which featured powerful testimonies from affected individuals, scientists, and politicians, drew widespread attention both on the ground and across online communities such as Reddit’s r/cfs forum.

Unlike traditional protests, participants physically lay down in public spaces to symbolize the devastating fatigue and immobility that define ME/CFS—a misunderstood and often neglected disease affecting millions globally. The demonstrations aimed to raise visibility for the condition, push for more medical research, and demand government action on funding and care.

Reddit user skkkrtskrrt, who shared live updates and photos from the demonstrations, highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the event. “Patient groups like Nichtgenesen, Fatigatio e.V., MECFS Research Foundation, and LiegendDemo have been critical in organizing these protests and pushing for better policies,” they noted. Many users echoed sentiments of hope, solidarity, and frustration at being unable to physically attend due to the illness itself.

The initiative comes ahead of the upcoming international ME/CFS conference, sparking renewed conversation about research funding and healthcare access. While many praised Germany for fostering a relatively strong advocacy and research environment—crediting prominent researchers like Dr. Carmen Scheibenbogen and Klaus Wirth—others highlighted ongoing systemic issues, especially for those without access to resources or medical care.

“These protests are as much about visibility as they are about survival,” said one Reddit commenter. “Many of us can’t leave our homes, let alone attend a protest. But seeing others lie down in our name gives us a voice.”

The demonstrations reflect a growing international movement fueled by patient advocacy and a heightened urgency stemming from post-COVID complications, including Long COVID.

About ME/CFS:
ME/CFS is a chronic, multisystem disease characterized by extreme fatigue, post-exertional malaise, pain, and cognitive dysfunction. There is currently no cure, and patients often face stigmatization and misdiagnosis.