Germany addresses social cohesion in climate and scientific policy debates

The Scientific Advisory Board on Global Change (WBGU) has released a report titled ‘Social Cohesion Strengthens Security,’ arguing that a stable society is a prerequisite for successful climate and social policy transformations. The report recommends integrating climate protection with social policy by ensuring low-income households have access to sustainable heating and mobility solutions to maintain public acceptance.

In a separate discussion regarding societal cohesion, the German Bundestag’s Corona inquiry commission addressed the treatment of critical scientific voices. Dr. Beate Sibylle Pfeil of the organization MWGFD testified that scientists and medical professionals who questioned COVID-19 policies were often stigmatized or labeled as conspiracy theorists, despite internal doubts existing within agencies like the Federal Institute for Drugs and Medical Devices (BfArM).