manifesto / manifest
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manifesto
A public declaration of the goals, intentions, and principles of a political, artistic, or social movement.
Die Künstlergruppe veröffentlichte ein Manifest, in dem sie ihre Vision für die Zukunft der Kunst darlegte.
The group of artists published a manifesto in which they set out their vision for the future of art.
The two meanings of 'Manifest' are easy to distinguish. In the context of politics, art, or social movements, it means a public declaration. In the context of transport, customs, and logistics, it means the cargo document.
Die neue Künstlerbewegung hat ihr Manifest in einer Galerie vorgestellt.
The new art movement presented its manifesto in a gallery.
When it refers to a public declaration, a manifesto is typically 'verfasst' (written), 'veröffentlicht' (published), or 'unterzeichnet' (signed). It is often described more specifically as a 'politisches Manifest' (political manifesto) or 'künstlerisches Manifest' (artistic manifesto).
Die Partei hat auf ihrem Kongress ein neues Manifest verabschiedet.
The party adopted a new manifesto at its convention.
This meaning of 'Manifest' is purely technical language. You encounter it almost exclusively in logistics, shipping, or air freight.
Alle Waren müssen korrekt im Manifest aufgeführt sein.
All goods must be listed correctly on the manifest.
program
'das Programm' and 'das Manifest' can both describe the goals and plans of a group. However, a program is usually more practical: it says what a party, organization, or event wants to do. A manifesto sounds stronger and more public. Above all, it explains the principles, beliefs, and major goals of a political, artistic, or social movement. The words can be confused when both texts contain goals. If it is about specific planned measures, 'Programm' fits better; if it is about a public declaration of ideas, 'Manifest' fits better.
Die Künstlergruppe veröffentlicht ein Manifest gegen langweilige Architektur.
The artists' group publishes a manifesto against boring architecture.
Die Partei stellt ihr neues Programm für Bildung und Verkehr vor.
The party presents its new program for education and transportation.