Germans are discovering that their society is not as equitable as they once believed, nor immune to the blather of populists.
Elections
German Election Bruises Merkel, But Isn’t a Knockout Blow
The emotive issue of how many asylum seekers Germany is morally obliged — and physically capable — to accept is eroding the country’s consensus-driven politics.
Merkel’s Dilemma
The term Mexit is worming its way into Germany’s political vocabulary, because the idea of Merkel’s departure after a decade in power is no longer unthinkable.
Is This the Next Woman to Run Germany?
“I’m happy that I don’t have to drag a backpack through life filled with ideologies that only have a limited shelf life,” said Julia Kloeckner.
Students, Not Spooks, Effect Regime Change
You can bankroll a coup but you can’t buy a popular uprising.
Winning by Losing
“I’m trying to understand: is this a demonstration of victory or defeat?” Alexei Navalny asked. The crowd gave him a resounding answer. In recent years, the words “Russian opposition leader” connoted “loser.” No longer.
Hail to the Chief
Eight years ago, I watched in despair as Bush Jr. was reelected. I felt no vindication when his presidency ended in disaster.
Obama is the antidote to W’s betrayal of America’s ideals. He can work no miracles. But he must try.
Taking on Merkel
Bespectacled and balding, Peer Steinbrück has the charm of a bank manager. The only moment I saw him betray any emotion was when he punched the air at the end of the delegates’ 10-minute standing ovation.
Hands Off Germany’s Neo-Nazi Party
Far-right parties are a scourge of many European democracies. But trying to prohibit them does nothing to uproot chauvinism or stop racist violence. It only creates the illusion that politicians are taking action.
A President for the World
Obama would have won a landslide if the whole world could have voted. Yet his global popularity isn’t entirely of his own making. Most people in most places already admire America for its openness, diversity and opportunity. Obama just embodies these qualities like no U.S. leader before him.
He’s the first president of the world.
