Democracy and social cohesion face challenges in Germany

Discussions regarding the state of democracy and social cohesion are emerging in Germany through educational workshops and public lectures. A workshop hosted by the Volkshochschule in Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock aims to address the perceived pressure on democracy, including rising political tension, authoritarian tendencies, and the erosion of social cohesion.

In a Theodor Heuss Memorial Lecture, author Anna Rabe addressed the crisis of democracy and morality. Rabe noted that the constant flood of information and a sense of loss of control lead individuals to retreat into private life or express aggression online, often targeting minorities. She highlighted a trust crisis in democratic institutions and cited an Allensbach survey indicating that only 46 percent of Germans believe they can express their opinions freely. The survey further suggested that the perception of restricted freedom of speech is more pronounced in regions where right-wing parties are elected. Rabe also criticized the tendency to view right-wing extremist potential solely as political disappointment, noting that the AfD has gained success through increasingly extremist stances.