Ways Out of Division—A Conversation with Right-Wing Dropouts and East Germans of Color

What drives people to become radicalized—and what helps them turn back from that path? And what is it like to live as an “Ossi of Color” in a social climate where right-wing ideologies are gaining traction again?

In the live podcast “Mauerecho,” we bring together people who rarely share the same stage: East Germans of color and former far-right extremists who have left the movement. The conversation centers on personal experiences, ruptures, and turning points—but also on perceptions of one another, prejudices, and possible paths toward understanding.

The goal is not a heated exchange, but an honest, constructively critical conversation in the spirit of the taz: listening, questioning, and contextualizing. Where do processes of radicalization arise? What social conditions play a role—especially in the East? And what paths lead back to an open society?

At the same time, the format is deliberately aimed at young people who are currently finding their bearings or becoming politically active. It aims to provide food for thought without being didactic—and to show that change is possible without downplaying people’s experiences.

Key Topics:

Personal Paths into and out of Radicalization

Perspectives of East German People of Color: Activism, Daily Life, Resistance

Mutual Perceptions: Where Do Enmity Stereotypes Arise?

Structural issues: What role do background, lack of prospects, and political discourses play?

Paths out of polarization: What is needed for dialogue and change?

Unique feature:
The audience is actively engaged (questions, brief sound bites) to highlight different perspectives. The goal is to create a space where listening is possible—even when discussing difficult topics.