Zeitenwende on tour
Townhall discussions on the challenges of our time

Since the Russian attack on Ukraine in February 2022, wars and global conflicts have moved noticeably closer to Germany. New security policy issues have been emerging for Europe. Former Chancellor Olaf Scholz spoke of an epochal shift (Zeitenwende), that is noticeable in all areas of life. Disinformation, increasing antisemitism, racism and xenophobia are leading to a growing polarisation of society. These epochal changes pose immense challenges for Germany: Previously valid foreign and security policy premises have lost their validity, new political answers and, above all, a social consensus must be found.

The Munich Security Conference had launched the new format Zeitenwende on Tour to discuss important questions about Germany’s role in a changing world with a wider audience. In townhall discussions of up to 500 participants, Zeitenwende on Tour created Germany-wide platforms to enable local residents to make their voice heard. Citizens were able to discuss Germany's security and European policy, and also talk about the implications that these changes have for each individual.

“We are delighted to be supporting this Munich Security Conference initiative. Especially in times of increasing division, it is important to view highly political issues from different perspectives — and to take concerns seriously and discuss them in a factual manner. Zeitenwende on tour creates space for this kind of open dialogue and thus strengthens trust in our democratic coexistence,” saie Silke Mülherr, Co-CEO of the Alfred Landecker Foundation at the beginning of the project.

During the townhall discussions held at Zeitenwende on tour, it quickly became apparent how deeply many people are concerned about the loss of long-held certainties. The realization that peace and prosperity can no longer be taken for granted shaped the discussions, as did the question of what defense capability actually means today - beyond numbers, budgets, and structures. The topic of responsibility came up repeatedly: Who bears it, what is worth standing up for, and how can a real threat be accurately identified without causing paralysis? Particularly clear was the desire for clarity, for serious engagement with uncomfortable realities, and for a Europe capable of action that jointly protects security and democratic values. The discussions showed how important open, fact-based dialogues are for addressing uncertainty, strengthening trust, and fostering democratic resilience - where people feel heard and can reflect together on the foundations of an open, pluralistic society.

Impressions from "Zeitenwende on tour" in Frankfurt/Oder in October 2024