The Zeitgeist

The Zeitgeist


Episode 45: Democracy as the Victor in Germany’s Federal Election

October 21, 2021

The September 26 German federal election marked a notable decline of the traditional big-tent parties (Volksparteien) and significant gains by the Green Party and the liberal Free Democratic Party, who enjoyed strong support from younger generations of voters. On this Episode of The Zeitgeist, AICGS President Jeff Rathke talks with Dr. Ellen Ueberschär, co-president of the Green Party-affiliated Heinrich Böll Foundation, to discuss the takeaways from the recent election as well as potential domestic and foreign policy priorities for the next coalition government. How is political landscape in Germany changing? How might intergenerational equity find its way into a coalition agreement? How might the traditional elements of the transatlantic relationship change?

Host
Jeff Rathke, President, AICGS
Guest
Dr. Ellen Ueberschär, co-president, Heinrich Böll Foundation