Reden wir über Veränderung

Europe is in a state of unrest. An era of “promise” has made way for an era of “threat”, as social scientist Heinz Bude says. Political, economic and climate disasters are forcing people to flee from their countries. Often, although not always, their destination is Germany. This development will probably intensify over the coming years and decades. What will happen to this country, its people and its values in the face of the challenges brought about by immigration? How can we take people’s fears and insecurities into account, while organising and guiding the transformation of society in a constructive manner?

“Reden wir über Veränderung (Let’s talk about change)” is a discussion of Berliner Festspiele, the German Trade Union Confederation, the German Cultural Council and the publishing house Der Tagesspiegel. In this event we will talk about ‘being German’. How can we describe German identity? Is it defined by shaking hands, Christmas, headscarves, language, an understanding of politics and art? What could be a powerful alternative model to the prevailing trend towards nationalism? We have never been a homogeneous people, but neither has there ever been a truly forward-looking understanding of ourselves as German citizens of the world between self-determination and heteronomy. Although a cosmopolitan and democratic country is in urgent need of such a concept. In this discussion, organised in a “fishbowl” format, very bold, personal kick-off statements will represent our first steps along this new path.