Ahead of German elections, Mark Leonard from the European Council on Foreign Relations reflects on Germany's significance within the wider European project. We investigate the murky world of underwater stealth sabotage. The German town of Meiningen fosters a cultural oasis in the middle of an AfD stronghold. And Alice in Orbanland: AfD leader Weidel pays a visit to Hungary.

Guy Delaunay, DW's Balkans correspondent, provides revealing insights into the protests in Serbia and the impending elections in Kosovo. Jens Stoltenberg, the former NATO chief and Norway's new Finance Minister, discusses his unexpected return to politics. Meanwhile, Ben Batka delves into Finland’s rightward political shift, focusing on how it impacts migrants, asylum seekers, and societal attitudes towards immigration. The podcast highlights pressing issues of political unrest, accountability, and the human stories behind shifting politics in Europe.

Has Germany’s firewall against the right just fallen? We’ll be taking you through an historic week in the German parliament, with wide-reaching implications for both German, and European democracy. Expect expert legal opinion, political analysis, and a beginner’s guide to democracy prepping: https://fragdenstaat.de/aktionen/prepping/&maca=en-podcast_inside-europe-949-xml-mrss#upgrade

Thomas Barrow, DW's political correspondent, dives into the political intrigue surrounding the German Green Party, discussing scandals and leadership tensions. Danny Mitzman shares a poignant personal survival story from the liberation of Auschwitz, reflecting on friendship and resilience. The conversation also touches on Europe’s response to Trump and highlights the uplifting spirit of a UK climate choir. Plus, a humorous look at Serbian men taking the plunge in icy waters for an epiphany tradition adds a light-hearted twist!

Guy Delorne, DW's Balkans correspondent, analyzes Zoran Milanovic's shocking victory in the Croatian presidential elections, shedding light on public discontent and tensions with the Prime Minister. Charlie Shield discusses the groundbreaking ban on fossil fuel advertising in several cities, emphasizing its potential to shift consumer behaviors and promote sustainability. The conversation also touches on the deceptive marketing tactics of both the tobacco and fossil fuel industries, highlighting the urgent need for ethical advertising practices in combating climate change.

Trump eyes up Greenland and Musk courts the AfD, Iran releases Italian journalist Cecilia Sala, Herbert Kickl tries to form a government in Austria, and Jean-Marie Le Pen dies in France. We also mark the 20th anniversary of one of Germany's most notorious deaths in custody, and delve into the marvellous secrets of a Spanish cork forrest.

Thomas Sparrow, a DW political correspondent, delves into the shifting political landscape in Germany as elections approach. He discusses the instability within the coalition government and the implications of international influences, like Trump's re-election. The conversation also highlights the far-right AFD party's rise, economic troubles, and the complexities of coalition-building. Additionally, Sparrow touches on the importance of art in addressing human rights and enhances understanding amidst Germany's socio-political challenges.

Join a lively Secret Santa speed dating event where correspondents swap quirky stories and insights about their countries in under four minutes! Discover the humor in an international couscous competition and reflect on the cultural significance of Notre Dame. Dive into the resonant issue of noise pollution affecting sperm whales in Norway, alongside personal tales of navigating friendships abroad. Enjoy a hilarious cultural dating game exploring odd culinary customs, wrapped up with playful audience engagement and year-end reflections!

A conversation with the wife of jailed Azerbaijani journalist Farid Mehralizada, another new Prime Minister in France, and Germany’s Chancellor loses a no confidence vote - on purpose. All that, plus an intensely Norwegian concession to Christmas!

Turkey's Syria connection, Finland prepares itself for Russian aggression, a football school in mafia country and Paris’ Notre Dame is back! Later in the show: a Freedom of Expression Special, and the untold stories of the female painters of the Italian renaissance.