Something is rotten in the state of Germany – and in the union of European states. At least that is what many people think who no longer trust the political elites. In the USA a self-styled outsider has been elected to the highest office of state, in France and the Netherlands right wing populists also have genuine chances to gain power; and in Germany there have been public calls to hang the Federal Chancellor. The revolutionary slogan “We are the people” that was once directed against the dictatorial regime of the GDR is now used as propaganda against the political establishment.

But it is not only right-wing populists who cultivate and channel frustration against “those at the top”. Others are also shaking the pedestal of the political, economic and cultural elites and demanding a greater say and more transparency. Spiritual and moral leadership appears to have detached itself from a section of the people. Non-voters have turned into protest voters. Angry citizens (Stuttgart 21) have become activists for plebiscites. They demand greater involvement through national referenda while others are warning against direct democracy (look at Brexit). And what are the present elites doing? So far they have reacted in shock and tried to save themselves by using snappy rhetoric in an attempt to seem anti-elitist, denouncing measured speech and action as “political correctness” and elevating gut feelings above factual knowledge. 
What mistakes has the political establishment made and what can we learn from them? How can right-wing supporters be convinced of free and democratic values once again?  How can more consideration be given to “the will of the people” – and what opportunities would this present for the country’s elite?

For ZEIT Forum Kultur President of the Bundestag Prof. Dr. Norbert Lammert and the political activist and board spokesperson for “Mehr Demokratie” Claudine Nierth will take part in a debate chaired by a ZEIT journalist with contributions from the audience.