Katja Hoyer

Historian Katja Hoyer, author of "Beyond the Wall: East Germany, 1949-1990," sheds light on the complexities of life in East Germany. She discusses how the state attempted to create a socialist identity while grappling with economic struggles and police surveillance. Katja reveals the impact of the Berlin Wall on daily life, consumerism, and cultural identity, highlighting the tension between state ideology and personal freedom. They also explore the legacy of East Germany and its lasting effects on contemporary society, including ongoing divides in culture and politics.

This time, historian Katja Hoyer joins to dissect Germany's latest election and its ripple effects across Europe. She dives into the surprising electoral trends among young voters and the political resurgence of the CDU versus the far-right AfD. The conversation sheds light on Germany's grappling with its historical reluctance to lead on the global stage amid rising NATO tensions and the implications for the Bundeswehr. Is this Germany's moment to step into a leadership role, or is Europe facing deeper divides?

Katya Adler, Europe editor, offers a sharp analysis of the German election results live from Berlin. She highlights the conservative CDU's strong lead while the far-right AfD's rise raises concerns. Historian Katja Hoyer dives into the historical context, exploring the political landscape's fragmentation and the significance of immigration on party dynamics. They discuss the urgency for stable coalitions and the challenges posed by Germany's economic divide, emphasizing the balancing act required in today's globalized world.

Join veteran journalist John Simpson, BBC's World Affairs editor, and historian Katja Hoyer, author of 'Beyond the Wall', as they delve into the momentous fall of the Berlin Wall. They discuss the chaotic events leading up to November 9, 1989, and the dramatic announcement that ignited a rush to freedom. Personal childhood memories from East Germany paint a vivid picture of life under Communist rule. The deep geopolitical tensions that shaped the East-West divide are explored, providing rich insights into this transformative era.

Katja Hoyer is a German-British historian and journalist, known for her work on East Germany. In this discussion, she tackles the surprising rise of Germany's far-right AFD party and examines why calling them 'Nazis' no longer deters voters. Hoyer explains the societal frustrations fueling this shift, touching on economic concerns and immigration. She also delves into the broader implications of political labels and how Germany's energy policies contribute to extremism, highlighting the complex landscape of modern German politics.

Sönke Neitzel, Militärhistoriker und Professor an der Universität Potsdam, und Katja Hoyer, Historikerin am King’s College London mit Fokus auf die DDR, diskutieren die Herausforderungen und die Geschichte der Wehrpflicht in Deutschland. Sie beleuchten die Aussetzung der Wehrpflicht 2011 und deren gesellschaftliche Auswirkungen. Außerdem erforschen sie die Einführung durch die Nationalsozialisten und den Wandel von der Freiwilligenarmee in der DDR. Die aktuellen sicherheitspolitischen Herausforderungen und die Frage der Wiederbelebung der Wehrpflicht stehen ebenfalls zur Debatte.

Katja Hoyer, author of 'Beyond the Wall' and expert on German politics, discusses the AfD's dramatic rise and its impact on the electoral landscape. She examines the stark political divide in Germany, particularly the party's stronghold in East Germany and the historical roots of this division. Hoyer highlights the traditional parties' struggles amidst rising right-wing sentiments and explores the controversial immigration policies promoted by the AfD. Her insights shed light on changing voter demographics and the potential future of German governance.

John Simpson, BBC world affairs editor with extensive conflict zone experience, teams up with Katja Hoyer, a historian and author known for her expertise on German history. They dive into the dramatic transformations in Germany post-Berlin Wall's fall, discussing the initial emotional reactions of citizens and leaders alike. The conversation reveals the challenges of unification, explores the economic hardships faced in East Germany, and reflects on the lasting impact this monumental event had on contemporary geopolitics. A nuanced perspective on freedom and change emerges.

Katja Hoyer, an expert on East Germany, and Thomas Fazi, a columnist focusing on Sarah Wagenknecht, dive into the recent political upheaval in East Germany. They discuss the surprising electoral rise of the AfD and Wagenknecht's new party, signaling a significant shift in political alliances. The conversation highlights the discontent with traditional parties and the urgent need for centrist strategies to re-engage voters. They also advocate for a redefined sense of security, emphasizing economic stability alongside social issues.

In this engaging discussion, BBC Europe editor Katya Adler analyzes the upcoming German elections, highlighting the potential rise of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), especially among young voters. Katja Hoyer, a historian, provides historical context on Germany's immigration debate and recent political shifts. Mark Urban assesses the latest developments in US-Ukraine relations, including the significance of a cancelled press conference between President Zelensky and US Envoy Keith Kellogg, amidst rising diplomatic tensions.