Blog
I publish short opinion pieces in this blog section at irregular intervals. I mostly, but do not exclusively write about topics of my research. For my blog posts published before 2020 (mostly in German), please visit the “Bretterblog”.
One month in Ukraine: a field report from a country at war
One month ago, I left Berlin to volunteer in Ukraine – for the third time since the full-scale invasion began. What is it like to be in Ukraine? How do Ukrainians cope with the war? What can we do to help defeat Russia?
Germany’s new China strategy: a step forward, no breakthrough
For the first time, Germany has adopted a China strategy. The reactions are mixed. The strategy breaks with previous mercantilism, but it does not offer new impulses. A review of core features.
What do the German elections imply for foreign affairs? Six quick takes
Germany has gone to the polls, the results are in, but it is not yet clear who will be the next chancellor. What does this imply for foreign affairs? Here are my six takes for the EU, China and others from last night.
Sweden’s corona trauma – a story of blind faith
Sweden’s corona policy receives international attention. Sweden is either seen as a model or a disaster. Yet, the Swedish “corona trauma” painfully uncovers the consequences if a democracy lacks a critical civil society.
What does the coming Biden presidency mean for China?
Great power relations have changed drastically under Trump. A return to the status quo ante is unlikely. Biden’s electoral victory is bad news for China because he is more realistic about China and will rebuild alliances.