John Kampfner writes in The Guardian on Germany, the rise of the AfD and the pressures now facing its democratic institutions.
Drawing on decades of reporting on Germany, as well as his own experience as a German citizen, John considers both the seriousness of the current political moment and the reasons he retains faith in the country’s ability to respond.
At the heart of the piece is a wider question about democratic leadership: when established political models come under pressure, maintaining confidence in them is not enough. Renewal requires clearer choices, greater political courage and a willingness to act.
A timely perspective on Germany, but also on the wider challenge facing democracies across Europe. The full article can be read here.