From the stone thrower to the compulsory military service: Joschka Fischers change

From the stone thrower to the compulsory military service: Joschka Fischers change

Berlin, Deutschland - Joschka Fischer, the former foreign minister and co -founder of the Greens, has made a remarkable political change in recent years. The 77-year-old politician, who was considered an icon of the peace movement in the 1970s, now occurs to reintroduce compulsory military service and a stronger European defense in order to counter the growing influence of Russia. This U -turn ensures mixed reactions within the political landscape and the electorate.

Fischer became known in the 70s by militant actions and, among other things, was head of the Frankfurt “cleaning group”, in which he openly admitted to having thrown stones on police officers. Because of his participation in an anti-Vietnam demonstration, he served six weeks in prison for breach of the peace in 1967. Despite his aggressive past in the service of the peace movement, he recently called for measures to strengthen the Bundeswehr.

change from the activist to the supporter of conscription

The reason for Fischer's new position can be considered in response to a survey, which shows that only 22 % of 18 to 29 year olds would be willing to defend Germany. Another survey by YouGov from 2024 illustrates that only 14 % voluntarily entered the Bundeswehr should be reintroduced. Many have caused many to critically question Fischer's demand for rethinking in defense policy.

The career of Fischer is characterized by his commitment to the Greens, which were founded in 1980 and formed from various social movements. The party developed from a radical protest movement to a stable part of German politics. The inner conflicts within the Greens have repeatedly led to tensions, even while Fischer's time as Foreign Minister from 1998 to 2005, when he led Germany to Kosovo - the first Bundeswehr deployment since the end of the Second World War.

criticism and opportunism

critics accuse Fischer Opportunism, complain that his current commitment to military means contradicts the original ideals of the Greens, which are strong for peace and disarmament. This discrepancy between its previous and current positions leads to justified resentment among the younger voters who support a more peaceful policy and can be difficult to identify with Fischer's new course.

Fischer now lives in a noble villa in Berlin and, in addition to his ministerial pension, receives high fees as a speaker. His career and the change in his political attitude also raise the question of how the political values ​​of the Greens are interpreted and lived today. The party, once founded from the student movement and other social movements, is now on a crossroads between old ideals and the requirements of a changing world.

Overall, the development of Joschka Fischer and the Greens shows how dynamic and challenging the political landscape in Germany is. The current topics touch not only defense policy, but also the foundation on which the green values ​​are.

The insights into Fischer's career and the review of the history of the Greens also show how much political beliefs can change. However, the principle of the party remains essential: striving for a sustainable, peaceful future for Germany and Europe. Our Central Europe illuminates this change, while Journalistenwatch critically. Contrary to this, BPB A comprehensive overview of the Greens in the German political system.