In this episode of the Defending Democracy Podcast, we speak with Dr. Wolfgang Ressmann, President of the German civil society organizations Media Dialogue and Youth4Media, about the shifting political landscape in Germany and beyond. As CDU/CSU prepares to lead the next government, and far-right radicalism gains ground, we explore what is at stake for Europe’s democratic future.
The conversation delves into the aftermath of Germany’s elections, where the far right secured 20% of the vote and the Social Democrats lost power. Dr. Ressmann provides open and direct reflections on this political shift, expressing serious concern about the growing normalization of far-right actors. When prompted with the examples of far-right leaders across Europe—such as Marine Le Pen in France, Giorgia Meloni in Italy, and Robert Fico in Slovakia—he firmly warned that these movements offer simplistic answers to complex challenges, ultimately leading societies toward division, repression, and war.
Dr. Ressmann also addresses the broader global implications, including the renewed mandate of Donald Trump in the United States. He underscores how the return of Trumpism represents a grave threat to democracy worldwide, particularly when paired with the rise of authoritarianism and disinformation strategies driven or exploited by regimes like Putin’s Russia. He points to the coordinated use of propaganda, hybrid warfare, and digital manipulation as tools of destabilization, eroding democratic institutions from within.
Part of the conversation is dedicated to Germany’s role in supporting Ukraine. Dr. Ressmann speaks about the moral, political, and strategic imperatives for continued support, reflecting on both the successes and the gaps in Germany’s response since the start of the Russian aggression in 2014 and the full-scale aggression in 2022. He calls for consistent solidarity, not just in military terms, but in upholding the values that define Europe: peace, democracy, and freedom.
The discussion moves into the crucial role of civil society and independent media in confronting far-right radicalism, propaganda, and authoritarian tendencies. Dr. Ressmann emphasizes that defending democracy is not the task of institutions alone – it is the responsibility of active citizens, cross-border coalitions, and especially the younger generations.
As one of the key figures behind the Defending Democracy Global Initiative, Dr. Ressmann shares the vision and mission of this international civil society platform. He underlines the urgency of transnational cooperation, particularly in times of escalating hybrid threats and shrinking civic space. In this context, he also speaks about the Westminster Alliance for Ukraine, highlighting its role as a strategic platform to reinforce European support for Ukraine and build momentum for democratic resilience.
The conversation ends with a compelling call to action for young people across the globe: “They have to fight for democracy and human rights,” Dr. Ressmann urges, “not let others decide for them.”
Xhabir Deralla
