UnHerd with Freddie Sayers Wolfgang Munchau: Will Germany be next?
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Nov 18, 2024 Wolfgang Munchau, founder of Eurointelligence and author of 'Kaput,' offers a sharp analysis of Germany's political landscape amid rising populism. He discusses the alarming ascent of the AfD party, linking it to immigration issues and the fallout from global events like Trump’s presidency. Munchau also delves into Germany's economic challenges, including outdated energy policies and the stifling effect of EU regulations on innovation. Expect insights on how these factors could shape Germany's future and the wider European political dynamics.
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Germany's Industrial Decline
- Germany's economic decline started becoming visible around 2017-2018, shortly after the Brexit referendum.
- This decline can be traced back to the early 2000s under Gerhard Schröder and Angela Merkel's chancellorship.
Germany's Energy Misstep
- Germany, once a leader in nuclear research, phased out nuclear power.
- This decision, influenced by the Green Party and Merkel's response to Fukushima, made them reliant on Russian gas.
Vulnerability to Russia
- Germany's energy plan was based on transitioning to renewables with Russian gas as a backup.
- This plan faltered when Russia invaded Ukraine, exposing Germany's vulnerability.
