One year ago, the news that flight MH17 had crashed in Ukraine sent shockwaves and caused consternation around the world. We remember the many victims, including four Germans. Our thoughts are with all those who lost friends or relatives in the crash of flight MH17.

The repatriation and identification of the victims, the salvaging of the wreckage in the conflict zone and the ongoing investigation into the cause of the crash have proven to be difficult and very protracted processes. In the end, the victims’ bodies were recovered and returned to their home towns. But the inquiry into the downing of the aeroplane has not yet been concluded.

Acts of violence that threaten the safety of civilian aviation are grave violations of international agreements on peace and security. The full truth must come out. Those directly or indirectly responsible for the downing of flight MH17 must be held accountable and brought to justice.