Reflecting on the IASGP Election Trip to Berlin – German General Elections 2025
On 19-24 February 2025, the IASGP organised an exciting and insightful trip to Berlin for the German general elections. This unique opportunity allowed about 45 participants to engage directly with Germany’s political landscape, learn from key political figures, and experience first-hand how a major election unfolds in one of Europe’s most influential countries.
The trip was designed to provide a comprehensive view of Germany’s political environment. Participants delved into topics ranging from the role of Germany in Europe, to the use of online campaigning in modern elections, and the position of several political parties in the elections. With sessions hosted by experts like Johannes Lindner from the Jacques Delors Centre and Ben Tallis, Director of Director of Democratic Strategy Initiative, it was a unique opportunity to explore Germany’s political machinery from multiple angles.
One of the highlights was the chance to shadow real election campaigns. This hands-on experience allowed participants to witness how political messages are crafted and delivered in the run-up to election day. It was an eye-opening experience that provided a deeper understanding of the intricacies of modern campaigning.
Throughout the trip, participants also had the opportunity to meet with fellow political professionals and share insights on the state of politics both in Germany and across Europe. Discussions were enriched by the diversity of experiences within the group, as everyone brought their unique perspectives to the table.
As the election results came in, our colleagues continued to share their thoughts, contributing analyses and reflections on various aspects of the elections. For instance, insights from the trip and the elections were shared across continents, such as in Japan where our colleague Toshiya Nakamura wrote two articles; one in Kyodo News, the biggest news agency in Japan and the other for Tokyo Shimbun (Tokyo Newspaper). You can access additional English-language sources at the bottom of the page. These contributions not only enriched our understanding of the event but also showcased the power of collaborative reflection and engagement – something at the core of the IASGP’s mission.
The IASGP Election Trip to Berlin was more than just a visit to Germany’s political heart – it was an opportunity to engage with ideas that will shape Europe’s future. We are grateful for the support of our partners and for the enthusiastic participation of all who joined, and we look forward to staying connected as we continue to explore the complex political landscapes around us.
Non-exhaustive list of outputs published by participants in the IASGP Election trip 2025 (in alphabetical order):
– “After the election: What’s at stake for Germany in international academic exchange?” with Eric Langenbacher. Broadcast as a DAAD–KIWi Policy Talk.
– “Cooperation Between Germany’s CDU and AfD ‘Inevitable’ in Long-Term” with Eric Langenbacher. Broadcast on Bloomberg UK.
“German election: the results explained as Friedrich Merz comes out swinging for Europe” by Ed Turner. Published on The Conversation.
– “Germany’s ‘firewall’ against populism has held so far. Sunday will be its biggest test” by Eric Langenbacher. Published in the Christian Science Monitor.
– “Inside Germany’s CRUCIAL 2025 Election with Dr. Eric Langenbacher” with Eric Langenbacher. Broadcast on The Athan Yanos Show.
– “Men’s and Women’s Political Representation in the 2025 German National Election” by Louise K. Davidson-Schmich. Published on the website of the American-German Institute.
– “Transatlantic Challenges for the Next German Government” with Eric Langenbacher. Panel discussion available on the website of the American-German Institute.
– “The German Bundestag Election Results” with Eric Langenbacher. Published on the American-German Institute’s The Zeitgeist Podcast.
– “The World and Everything in It: Germany’s political divide sharpens” by Eric Langenbacher. Published in WORLD.
– “Who is Friedrich Merz, the man now most likely to lead Germany? Eight things to know” by Ed Turner. Published on The Conversation.
– Ross Campbell and Louise Davidson-Schmich are editing a forthcoming book on the 2025 Election, set to be published by Palgrave very soon. Keep an eye out for this exciting release, which features contributions from over half of the participants from the election trip. In the meantime, feel free to (re)discover their previous edited volume on the 2021 Election.