Freddie Sayers interviews Wolfgang Münchau about Germany's challenges. They discuss the rise of the AFD party, Germany's energy policies and their impact on CO2 emissions, frustrations with the government's decisions, struggles in policy, technology, and globalization, and the potential emergence of a new party on the left. Münchau proposes a pragmatic approach to international relations and emphasizes the need for a new vision in Europe post-Brexit to avoid paralysis.
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Quick takeaways
The rise of the Alternative for Deutschland (AFD) party in Germany is driven by dissatisfaction with traditional parties and the immigration issue.
Germany's economic decline, including dependence on Russian gas and a decline in the car industry's competitiveness, has led to job insecurity and dissatisfaction among workers, contributing to the rise of the AFD party.
Deep dives
The Rise of Alternative for Deutschland (AFD)
The podcast episode discusses the rise of the Alternative for Deutschland (AFD) party in Germany and its potential impact on European politics. The AFD is a far-right party that differs from other European far-right parties in that it lacks a strong leader and experiences internal rebellions. While it may not be accurate to label the AFD as fascist, they hold goals that are incompatible with constitutional law. The AFD's rise is driven by the immigration issue and dissatisfaction with traditional parties. In recent years, the party has gained significant support, particularly in East Germany.
Challenges to Germany's Economic Model
The episode explores the challenges faced by Germany's economic model, which has relied on industry, exports, and globalization for decades. However, Germany's economic performance has weakened, and it faces difficulties such as dependence on Russian gas, a decline in the car industry's competitiveness, and a lack of investment in digital technologies. These challenges have led to dissatisfaction among workers and fears of job insecurity. The AFD's rise can be seen as a reaction to these economic issues and a desire for change.
Consequences for the European Union
The podcast highlights the potential consequences of Germany's decline for the European Union (EU). While the EU is not likely to break up, it may become toothless and ineffective without a strong Germany at its center. The rise of populist parties like the AFD, along with the EU's reliance on the US for protection and globalization for economic success, puts the EU in a vulnerable position. The lack of a clear vision or leadership to address these challenges further compounds the potential difficulties for Europe.
Outlook for Germany and the UK
The episode discusses the future outlook for Germany and the UK. Germany's decline and lack of willingness to reform its economic model may lead to a difficult period ahead. The UK, on the other hand, had an opportunity with Brexit to pivot towards a new economic model, but has not yet done so. The lack of a clear vision or pragmatic approach in both countries' political landscapes adds to the uncertainty. While Germany faces decline, there remains a possibility for the UK to forge a new path if it embraces a different economic model.
Freddie Sayers sits down with Wolfgang Münchau , former co-editor of FT Deutschland, and founder and co-director of the Eurointelligence blog, to talk about Germany, the new sick man of Europe.