The Dispute – How democracy came to Germany and how we need to revitalise it
Germany is in a polycrisis as is its democracy
All in all, the new beginnings of Germany in 1949 is a success story that gives us great confidence for the enormous challenges of the present and the future – provided that state and society keep adapting to the new tasks. The challenges faced by the rule of law and democracy in Germany are increasing. However, a look back at the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany and the crises of the past 75 years shows that our democracy is more stable than many pessimists would like to admit. Social cohesion during the stormy crises of recent years has proven to be resilient. And in a European comparison, it is striking that radical parties can still be kept out of power in Germany. But the challenges are huge and only through decisive political action, through a reform of the constitutional state, can Germany remain what it is: a liberal democracy.
- German democracy is deeply rooted and resilient – but the future requires adjustments, including to its constitution
Friedrich Kießling, born in 1970, is Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at the University of Bonn. He has researched and taught in London, Vienna and Dresden, among other places. One focus of his work is the aftermath of National Socialism in the Federal Republic.
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Christoph Safferling, born in 1971, is Professor of Criminal Law, Criminal Procedure Law, International Criminal Law, and International Law at the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg. He is the director of the International Nuremberg Principles Academy.
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