»The new Wall«

On the state of democracy in Germany.

The discussion volume »The New Wall« (»Die neue Mauer«) explores tensions between East and West and examines the state of democracy in Germany. Much of what succeeded – and failed – during the process of reunification after 1990 continues to shape expectations, disappointments and political attitudes today.

Bodo Ramelow, former Minister-President of the Free State of Thuringia, and historian Ilko-Sascha Kowalczuk discuss the causes, perceptions and prospects of an increasingly polarised society. They analyse the success of the AfD, not only in the eastern federal states, and reflect on our shared responsibility for the future of democracy in Germany.

Book presentation and discussion:

Bodo Ramelow, politician and Vice-President of the German Bundestag
Dr. Ilko-Sascha Kowalczuk, Academic Adviser, DDR Museum

Moderator: Natascha Freundel, cultural editor at rbb, Berlin

Admission is free.

Two men stand in front of tall bookshelves in a study or library. One is leaning against a piece of furniture, and both are looking directly at the camera.

14 July 2026, 6 pm

Conference room DDR Museum
Sankt Wolfgang-Str. 2
10178 Berlin

Here you can see the location.

The event will take place in German.