American Council on Germany’s Post

🌍 Celebrating Our Democratic Heritage: A Call to Vote in the European Parliament Election 🗳️ As we approach the European Parliament Election on June 9th, my personal connection is a pivotal moment in German history: the Hambacher Fest end of May 1832 (I can see Hambach Castle from my window). During this festival, more than 30.000 men and women and brave speakers gathered to demand democratic rights and the freedom to elect their representatives for a better political and economic situation, despite facing severe oppression. Their very first vision included a confederate Europe and contributed to lay the groundwork for the freedoms we enjoy today. 🔗 The right to vote in a free, secret, and equal manner is not just a privilege—it is a profound responsibility that we carry forward from generations who fought to secure it. This right is the cornerstone of our democracy, governing how we shape our future and uphold the values we cherish. As we cast our votes, we not only exercise our democratic rights but also honor those who envisioned a unified and democratic Europe. We invite nations that share these values to join us in preserving this precious heritage. 🌟 Let's not take our freedoms for granted. Go out, vote, and choose wisely the future you want to create. Together, we can continue to build a Europe that reflects our deepest commitments to freedom and democracy. #EuropeanElection #Democracy #Vote #EuropeanUnion #HambacherFest #HistoryInVoting #FutureOfEurope

Forget far-right and far-left, the new dividing line is between establishment and anti-establishment. And the establishment just got clobbered in Eastern Germany. My latest for Brussels Signal. https://lnkd.in/dtfnkv4D

The recent rise of far-right parties in countries like France, Italy, Germany, and most recently Austria, points to a significant shift in Europe’s political landscape. These movements are often driven by dissatisfaction with the status quo, growing social polarization, and concerns over national sovereignty. Additionally, domestic issues such as economic struggles and the rising cost of living are pushing many voters toward parties that promise radical solutions. This shift is also putting pressure on the European Union’s political structure. Many of these far-right parties prioritize national sovereignty and advocate for a reassessment of their countries’ relationships with the EU. If their influence continues to grow, we could see increased challenges to the unity of the European Union and more conflicts between member states. Ultimately, the rise of the far-right in Europe signals a more fragmented political environment, both domestically and at the EU level. The key challenge ahead will be to develop solutions that preserve democracy and social cohesion in the face of these changing dynamics. https://lnkd.in/dQA9i-Gj

As the EU Elections approach and with it a new European Commission and Parliament will take shape, it’s crucial to continue and amplify our efforts to build a better Europe through arts and culture. EFA and A Soul for Europe are dedicated to driving positive change 🌍 We met with Barbara Gessler, Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Germany, to exchange about the upcoming Berlin Conference 2024 ‘A Soul for Europe’. It will bring together arts and politics from the local to European level for an intense 2 days of conversations. Here are some key points we discussed: 🔹Emphasising the need to stay close to the grassroots level - to listen and share political messages effectively. 🔹 Addressing the critical issues of communication, especially understanding where young voters are getting their information. 🔹Promoting cross-sectoral dialogue within a shared political space. 🔹Highlighting the power of storytelling and the vital role the arts can play in connecting people to Europe.

This past weekend marked a significant milestone in the history of my home country – 75 years of the Basic Law. Since its proclamation on May 23, 1949, the Basic Law has been the foundation of the Federal Republic of Germany and a vibrant symbol of democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. It has guided Germany through various political and societal challenges and remains a central pillar of our democratic identity. Originally, it was intended as a provisional constitution until a pan-German constitution could be enacted. However, with its progressive and far-sighted design, it has proven to be enduring and has become the cornerstone of German democracy. The fundamental rights embedded within it, such as freedom of expression, equality, and the protection of human dignity, are inviolable and form the ethical framework of our society. In a time when democratic values are under pressure worldwide, the anniversary of the Basic Law reminds us of the importance of protecting and promoting these values. A key aspect of this is active participation in democratic processes, especially in elections. Participating in elections is a valuable right that gives everyone the opportunity to actively shape the future. By participating in the European elections, we can help ensure that Europe remains a space of peace, freedom, and progress. So I am proud that Siemens Energy is a founding member of the #WeStandForValues initiative, alongside 30 other German companies encouraging people in #Europe to exercise their right to vote from June 6 - 9.

For #Brussels 🇪🇺 watchers the relationship between #DonaldTusk and #FrederichMerz will be a critical one in the coming years i.e. a critical way of halting Manfred Weber's race to the #farright with the European People's Party lies in the dynamic between Berlin & Warsaw, and whether post-🇵🇱 presidential election in May '25 and the 🇩🇪 federal election on Feb. 23, the two men [yes, more men in suits 🕴🏽🕴🏽] can align. Halting Weber (including his possible defeat for the EPP leadership at their Congress in Valencia) will allow the group to shift back to the centre and the historic alignment with Renew Europe and Socialists and Democrats Group in the European Parliament, and importantly the realisation of an agenda more aligned with meeting the task of tackling the #planetarycrisis and a #justtransition.

Today's cover of POLITICO Europe

Can the European Union hear us now? Populist victories send a message to politicians "...Voters across Europe spent the weekend sending a message to the EU’s political class: a nationalist and populist shift is happening across the continent.The European Parliamentary election held over the past few days saw the biggest wins for nationalist and populist parties in European Union history.As the results poured in across Europe, the media spun the news as an ominous “far right” victory throughout the EU.News outlets made it seem as if fascism had once again reared its ugly head over Europe after eight decades of liberal peace and prosperity.This couldn’t be further from the truth.The so-called “far right” resurrection is really just the mainstreaming of widespread and rising anger as ordinary voters focus on issues that establishment parties in Europe have refused to touch..." https://lnkd.in/ebYimAZV

The European elections are approaching, and I want to take a moment to speak about something very personal to me. I grew up in East Germany, in the former GDR. I still remember a time when free elections and democratic freedoms were not a given. There was no way to express one's opinion freely or to effect political change through voting. The end of the GDR and the reunification of Germany opened the door to a life of freedom and democracy for me and many others. For almost 35 years, I have enjoyed these freedoms. But I must admit that, like many of us, I often forget how valuable and fragile these achievements are. We take them for granted, not considering that they are at risk from populist movements in many countries across our Europe. This is why I support the initiative "We Stand for Values" (https://lnkd.in/eadxZPeZ). This initiative stands for diversity, openness, and tolerance in a united Europe and is committed to defending and promoting the fundamental values that make up our democracy: freedom, equality, the rule of law, and human rights. It reminds us that democracy and freedom are not givens but must be protected and cherished every day. My personal history and experiences have taught me how important it is to preserve our democratic values. Therefore, I encourage everyone to participate in the European elections and cast a strong vote for democracy and freedom. Every vote counts! #WeStandForValues #EuropeanElections #Democracy #Freedom #GoVote

⛔ There is a red line that must not be crossed. ⛔ As I stood behind this symbolic red line this morning – alongside scientists, artists, and former politicians – it once again became clear to me what is at stake in Austria in this crucial election year and why it requires all of us to stand together and unite our efforts. The threats to our democracy and the rule of law are very real in Austria – with the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) polling at 30% for the national elections. Entertaining the idea of forming a government with this party, which presents itself more radicalized than ever, is a line that must not be crossed. As citizens, as members of civil society, our engagement is not just important – it's paramount. Every voice counts, and every action makes a difference. Our democracy thrives on active participation and the courage to defend our values. I'm deeply committed to fostering this engagement through the work we do at aufstehn.at. This year, our responsibility to showcase Austria's commitment to solidarity, diversity, and human rights is greater than ever. Let's rise together and make our voices heard. #engagement #elections #cooperation Photo credits: #aufstehn/Maria von Usslar