Historian Götz Aly has cautioned the German government against downplaying the need for reform in the areas of healthcare, elder care and pension provision. In an interview with “Der Spiegel”, Aly warned that failing to address these issues could lead to developments that threaten the stability of the political system.
Aly is preparing to publish what he describes as his final major work, “Wie konnte das geschehen” (“How Could This Have Happened”), on August 27th. Published by S. Fischer Verlag, the book explores the origins of National Socialism. While asserting that Germany is not on the verge of a similar situation to 1933, Aly drew parallels to the weakening of the democratic center in the Weimar Republic beginning in 1929, noting a perceived inability of elected officials to make necessary, difficult decisions.
Aly emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns of younger generations, stating that consistently burdening them with excessive costs and failing to resolve key issues such as education, housing and high social security contributions will contribute to political instability.
He stressed that the threats to German democracy are not solely attributable to the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, identifying a general negative sentiment among the population and a tendency for voters to use elections as a means of expressing dissatisfaction with the current political establishment. He indicated his willingness to engage in dialogue with AfD voters and members, advocating against a ban on the party for the foreseeable future.
Regarding the recent increase in antisemitism, particularly in light of the conflict in the Middle East, Aly characterized it as a form of “transfer antisemitism” suggesting it represents an attempt by some individuals to deflect responsibility for the Holocaust and the murder of six million Jews.
