Germany in crisis: historian calls for urgent reforms!

Germany in crisis: historian calls for urgent reforms!

There is currently an unmistakable crisis in Germany. The German-British historian Prof. Dr. Frank Trentmann has taken a close look at the situation and provides important analyzes and food for thought in his new book “The Blocked Republic”. According to ARD Mediathek he discusses the challenges facing German democracy in an interview with moderator Bettina Tietjen. There are explosive topics that are addressed on the “Red Sofa”, including populism, migration and the economy. The conversation was produced by Miriam Rumohr, under the editorial direction of Stephanie Barrenberg.

Trentmann emphasizes that the current difficulties are not overwhelming, but serious. He calls for more courage for reforms, confidence and pragmatism. “Redirecting means rethinking” – this idea runs like a common thread through his argument. In his book, the historian analyzes how Germany got into this challenging situation and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of democracy as well as the German culture of remembrance. In particular, the aging of society and migration are central issues that need to be looked at more closely in order to find solutions, he says ([Fischer Verlage](https://www.fischerverlage.de/buch/frank-trentmann-die-blockierte- Republik-9783103977028)).

A divided society

The current survey by the Körber Foundation is interesting, as it shows that trust in politics is noticeably decreasing. Over 60 percent of those surveyed would like politicians to have more power and the will to assert themselves, which indicates growing discontent among the population. Many people are calling for the federal government to have greater scope for action in crisis situations. However, the majority, a full 61 percent, firmly rejects any expansion of executive powers without parliamentary approval.

Concerns about democracy are also reflected in the current debate about the federal government's ability to act. Over 69 percent of survey participants see populism as a threat to our democratic structures. There is a striking difference between the age groups: While 74 percent of older citizens perceive populism as a threat, only 60 percent of younger people see it that way. The regional perspective is also exciting, because while 70 percent of West Germans see populism as a risk, in the East it is only 64 percent.

Prosperity through pragmatism

Trentmann is sure that Germany can achieve more than it thinks. In the historical reflections in his book, he offers international comparisons and shows how social divisions, particularly the distorted images in East and West Germany, contribute to polarization. He warns that a rethink is necessary in order to find common solutions and shows possible solutions that require not only courage but also the willingness to reform.

Germany is at a crossroads, and it is up to political decision-makers and every single citizen to set the course for the future. The message from Prof. Dr. Frank Trentmann, moderated by Bettina Tietjen, encourages people to actively participate in rethinking so that democracy can remain up to the challenges of the present.