Topic: Essen

A report from Essen, Germany, details the rise of the right-wing AfD party in a traditional Social Democratic stronghold. Voters express concerns over rising crime, unemployment, and the impact of migration. The hosts discuss the tensions within the AfD as they attempt to navigate nationalist politics while avoiding associations with historical fascism.

The city of Essen, a major shareholder in RWE, faces a budget crisis after the energy company canceled its dividend following a 7 billion euro loss. The shortfall is exacerbated by the high cost of accommodating 8,000 refugees and maintaining public transport services like eVag amidst rising debt.