The youth wing of Germany’s Green Party is openly criticizing the party’s leadership, alleging a lack of boldness and a reluctance to confront politically sensitive issues. Luis Bobga, co-chair of the Green Youth alongside Henriette Held, voiced concerns to the Süddeutsche Zeitung, highlighting what he perceives as a tendency towards “smooth maneuvering” rather than direct engagement in crucial debates.
Bobga specifically targeted the party’s handling of recent comments made by Chancellor Scholz regarding urban development, labeling them “racist” and accusing the Greens of failing to directly condemn the statement due to a perceived need to maintain cordial relations. He suggested this hesitancy represents a “missed opportunity” to solidify the party’s identity and demonstrate solidarity with vulnerable populations.
Beyond Scholz’s remarks, the Green Youth is advocating for a strategic course correction ahead of the upcoming Green Party convention. Bobga expressed a growing disconnect among voters regarding the party’s core values and demanded the implementation of clear and assertive messaging in the next federal election campaign.
The youth wing also firmly opposes any form of mandatory service for young people, including discussions surrounding a broadened defense structure. They will staunchly reject proposals for compulsory societal service years or mandatory registration checks, emphasizing that increasing the number of conscripts is not a viable response to Russia’s hybrid warfare tactics. They push for a broader discussion about national defense.
Furthermore, Bobga has committed to shifting the party’s internal debates and policy direction further to the left. He championed implementing nationwide rent controls, allowing municipalities to cap rent increases for a five-year period to offer immediate relief to affected citizens. He argued this action would demonstrate the Greens’ commitment to addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing.
Marcel Emmerich, the Green Party’s domestic policy spokesman, acknowledged the youth wing’s criticism and voiced support for a bolder political stance. He drew parallels with the success of New York City’s left-leaning mayor, Zohran Mamdani, highlighting the importance of combining conviction with a substantial policy platform to resonate with a wider electorate. The internal push underscores an ongoing tension within the Green Party, revealing a clash between a desire for consensus and a younger generation’s call for more assertive political action.
