Der Beitrag New Bridge to the US: Class of 2026 erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

I arrived at the New Bridge Program carrying a familiar American question:  Is Germany prepared to assume greater responsibility for Europe’s defense?

As a U.S. Army veteran and former military and veteran liaison in the United States Senate, I have seen security policy from both the institutional and human sides. I understand why Americans expect capable allies to share the responsibility of deterrence. But after discussions in Washington, Brussels, Berlin, and Frankfurt (Oder), I returned with a more complicated and more urgent understanding of the challenge. The question is no longer simply whether Germany and Europe will spend more. It is whether those investments can be translated quickly enough into military capability, industrial readiness, technological innovation, and lasting public support.

Our conversations about Russia’s war against Ukraine and the future of transatlantic security made clear that Europe’s security environment has fundamentally changed. At NATO Headquarters, we examined how the Alliance’s strategic priorities are being put into practice and how Germany operates within a consensus-based institution of 32 sovereign democracies. In Berlin, our discussions explored how changes in U.S. foreign policy are influencing German and European calculations, as well as how industrial, energy, and innovation policy increasingly intersect with national security. These exchanges challenged me to look beyond defense spending as a percentage of gross domestic product. Spending commitments are indispensable, but budgets do not deter adversaries on their own. Deterrence requires forces that can deploy, equipment that can be sustained, supply chains that can withstand disruption, and an industrial base capable of producing at the speed and scale a crisis demands. That distinction has only become more relevant since our fellowship. NATO Allies have committed to investing 5 percent of GDP in defense and defense-related requirements by 2035. At the 2026 NATO Summit in Ankara, Allies announced more than $50 billion in new procurements and committed to expanding collective manufacturing capacity and accelerating innovation. These are significant steps, but 2035 cannot become permission to postpone what Europe needs now. The threat is immediate. Ukraine cannot wait years for promised support, and NATO cannot afford procurement and production timelines built for a more predictable era.

Europe possesses extraordinary scientific expertise, advanced manufacturing, and a growing defense-technology sector.

The challenge is connecting those strengths to operational requirements at the speed of the threat.

Ukraine has demonstrated the importance of drones, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, resilient communications, and the rapid adaptation of civilian technology for military use. NATO must create more accessible pathways for start-ups and nontraditional suppliers, accelerate testing and procurement, and give established manufacturers the predictable, long-term demand required to expand production. Readiness five years from now will matter little if aggression succeeds in the meantime. This urgency also requires sustained financial and military support for Ukraine. That support is not charity; it is an investment in the principle that borders in Europe cannot be changed by force. If Russia is allowed to benefit from violating Ukraine’s sovereignty, the consequences will extend far beyond Ukraine. Other states will reasonably question whether international commitments can protect them, or whether only possessing their own nuclear weapons can guarantee their survival.

[related] That is a path Europe and the world must avoid. The answer is not a cascade of new national nuclear arsenals. It is credible collective defense: strong conventional capabilities, reliable alliance commitments, and unmistakable political resolve. NATO must demonstrate that no country will be permitted to redraw European borders through invasion while ensuring that deterrence prevents escalation rather than accelerates it. Our visit to Frankfurt (Oder), on Germany’s border with Poland, added another dimension to this lesson. In Washington and Brussels, security is often discussed through strategies, institutions, and spending targets. In Frankfurt (Oder), conversations about local government, journalism, business, and regional identity illustrated that alliances ultimately depend on the confidence of the communities they protect. Defense investments must therefore be accompanied by an honest public explanation of why they are necessary and how they contribute to security, economic resilience, and democratic stability.

Germany’s history understandably shapes how it approaches military power. The New Bridge Program helped me appreciate that historical restraint while recognizing that responsibility takes different forms in different eras. Today, responsibility requires Germany to help ensure that Europe can defend itself, support Ukraine, and deter further aggression. It also requires the United States to treat stronger European capacity as an investment in our shared security, not a retreat from American leadership.

The transatlantic debate has moved beyond whether Europe must do more. The task now is turning resources into readiness before the next crisis tests our promises. That will require political courage, faster institutions, sustained support for Ukraine, a revitalized defense industrial base, and an innovation ecosystem capable of moving at unprecedented speed. The future of the Alliance will be determined not by the commitments its members announce for the next decade, but by the capabilities and the resolve they build together now.

Der Beitrag Beyond Burden-Sharing: The Urgency of Transatlantic Readiness erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

By Anas El Yousfi

Spend some time in Germany and you will meet a country that is visibly and functionally multicultural. More than a quarter of Germany’s residents now have a migration background, and in 2024 the country naturalized nearly 292,000 new citizens, the most since it began keeping records. Then read the headlines from the same country: fast-track citizenship abolished, family reunification suspended for many migrants, border control turned into the government’s defining issue. I grew up multiculturally, with family from all over the world, so questions of migration and belonging have never been abstract to me. Maybe that is why, traveling through Washington, Brussels, and Berlin this spring with the Atlantik-Brücke New Bridge Program, I felt like I was watching two Germanys describe themselves at once. The society has already become something its politics has not yet agreed to be, and the space between them is where nearly every conversation we had seemed to end up.

A roundtable on migration and integration at DeZIM (German Centre for Integration and Migration Research) in Berlin gave that gap a history. We met with researchers who study integration and with a representative of the Turkish German community, whose story begins in 1961, when Turkish workers were recruited to help rebuild the postwar economy. Sixty-five years later there are fourth-generation Turkish Germans, yet for most of that time integration was treated as a test migrants had to pass rather than a process the whole society took part in. Germany did not officially describe itself as a country of immigration until this century, long after it had become one in practice.

“Which parts of the past a country chooses to remember says a great deal about who it considers its own.”

A walking tour of Berlin’s colonial history extended that theme further back in time. Germany’s memory culture is rightly admired. The Stolpersteine, small brass plaques set into the sidewalk in front of the homes of people deported and murdered by the Nazis, are impossible to walk past without pausing. But the tour also covered histories that receive far less attention, including Black Germans persecuted under Nazi rule and the colonial-era crimes Germany has only recently begun to confront. It formally acknowledged the genocide of the Herero and Nama peoples in Namibia only in 2021. Our tour ended at a subway station recently renamed for Anton Wilhelm Amo, an African-born philosopher who taught at German universities in the eighteenth century, after decades of public campaigning against the colonial-era name it replaced. Which parts of the past a country chooses to remember says a great deal about who it considers its own.

That question followed me personally as well. When I introduced myself in Germany, people would sometimes ask where I was really from. The question was never hostile, and I understood the curiosity behind it. But Turkish Germans hear the same question in their own country, in their own language, three generations in. Living in a country and being counted as fully part of it are not the same thing, and that small question marks the distance between them.

That distance is now the central fight in German politics. We took a regional train east to Frankfurt an der Oder, a small city on the Polish border, where we met local officials and journalists who described how their region is changing. Eastern Germany is where the far right performs best, often in places where relatively few migrants actually live, which suggests the anxiety has less to do with actual neighbors than with a story about national identity under threat. A panel on democracy and participation raised the other side of the same issue: whether people with migration histories can move from being the subject of policy debates to taking part in them. The far right’s answer is a permanent no. Germany’s democratic future depends on a better one.

As an American, none of this felt entirely foreign, just a bit different. The United States calls itself a nation of immigrants and debates constantly over what that means, and Germany is telling itself a more hesitant version of the same story. What I took home was less a verdict than a sense of direction. Multicultural Germany is not a proposal that can still be voted down. It already exists, at record scale. The real question is how long its politics takes to catch up with its people. I’ll be watching for Germany’s answer, because in the United States, we’re still working on our own.

Anas El Yousfi is a technologist working at the intersection of data, technology, and society. Raised Moroccan-American in New York with family across Western Europe and beyond, he grew up immersed in the questions that define the transatlantic relationship, with a deep interest in geopolitics and how AI and emerging technologies are reshaping governance and public life on both sides of the Atlantic. He’s a 2026 fellow of the New Bridge Program.

The New Bridge Program is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), and by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag “Multicultural Germany is not a proposal” erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

Der Beitrag New Bridge to Germany: Class of 2026 erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

Der Beitrag Call for Applications: New Bridge to Germany erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

The fourth New Bridge Program Alumni Conference brought together fifty U.S. and German young professionals in New Orleans from November 6 to 8. In this essay, our reporting team analyzes the development of the U.S.–German relationship through the lens of the conference’s insights.

The New Bridge Program Alumni Conference in New Orleans opened with a panel conversation on US-German relations between Christopher Fettweis, Professor of Political Science at Tulane University and Markus Hatzelmann, Deputy Consul General for Germany in Houston.

The conversations that emerged from this panel crystallized a broader reality: the transatlantic relationship finds itself in an era of profound uncertainty, shaped not only by external threats but by internal pressures that challenge the self-image of both Germany and the United States as “leaders of the free world.” Beneath the surface of diplomatic continuity lies an unresolved question—whether today’s sense of crisis is a fleeting disruption or a structural reordering of global power that the West was never ideologically or strategically prepared for.

The claim that we live in a golden age of peace and security with current conflicts merely representing the last shot of the first cold war, glosses over the fundamental shift in great power competition. As noted by legal theorist Mary Dudziak, the nature of modern conflict challenges the traditional measurement of “wartime” versus “peacetime” (War Time: An Idea, its History, its Consequences).

“Soft power alone cannot anchor European security.”

The German realization that soft power alone cannot anchor European security marks a historic shift: Berlin’s renewed military investment reflects not just Russia’s aggression, but the broader foreign-policy recalibration of a U.S. increasingly preoccupied with domestic affordability, inequality, and strains on its own democratic institutions. American soft power, long buoyed by the mythology of the “American Dream,” has become entangled with political polarization and public skepticism toward global engagement. Especially as Trump sends National Guard troops in U.S. cities to symbolize his own power and keep unwelcome opinions at bay (The New York Times 2025).

[related]These domestic currents influence the transatlantic equilibrium as much as external pressures from Moscow, Beijing, and non-state cyber actors. Ultimately, the future health of the transatlantic relationship depends less on historical sentiment and more on a clear, shared commitment to meet contemporary security challenges with commensurate resources and resolve. If the European pillar, led by Germany, fails to demonstrate equal rigor in the face of digital and analog warfare, and the U.S. continues to turn inward, the “up and down” cycle we’ve gotten used to in US-German relations risks becoming a permanent divergence.

Populism as a Stress Test, Not a Sideshow

The rise of populist movements on both sides of the Atlantic, the MAGA movement in the U.S. and the AfD in Germany, should be understood less as aberrations and more as stress tests of each country’s democratic architecture. They reflect a renegotiation of the social contract amid demographic, economic, and generational change. Populism reframes public grievances as existential threats, blurring the lines between legitimate critique and institutional delegitimization. Yet, history suggests that democratic societies tend to experience such periods as oscillations rather than endpoints. What matters is the resiliency of the institutions being tested—and here, both the U.S. and Germany possess deeper democratic guardrails than their current politics might suggest.

Still, the geopolitical implications of these internal dynamics are significant. A West struggling with its own coherence cannot project a unified model of freedom or prosperity. Nor can it rely on assumptions that shaped the post–Cold War world: that economic integration guarantees peace, that information technology inherently empowers democratic movements, or that military conflict remains confined to visible battlefields. In New Orleans, participants underscored how cyberwarfare, disinformation, and drone-based conflict have dissolved the line between war and peace—forcing both countries to rethink how power is understood, exercised, and defended.

© Zack Smith

© Zack Smith

© Zack Smith

© Zack Smith

At the Whitney Plantation

© Zack Smith

© Zack Smith

The New Alumni Council:

© Zack Smith

© Zack Smith

Local Realities as Geopolitical Mirrors

New Orleans itself, with its history of resilience, its climate vulnerability, its racial inequities, and its cultural depth, served as a grounding lens for these global questions. The city’s local challenges mirror many of the systemic tensions defining the transatlantic debate: who bears the burden of “resilience,” what inequities erode public trust, how climate injustice reshapes political identity, and how communities respond when institutions fail to protect them. Ignoring these local dynamics—whether in Louisiana or in Saxony—means misunderstanding the forces reshaping global politics. Domestic and geopolitical stability are now inseparable.

The conversations in New Orleans did not offer certainty, but they did point to an emerging hypothesis: that despite the pressures of populism, shifting power structures, and redefined security threats, the U.S.–German relationship is unlikely to fracture. Instead, it is being recalibrated—toward a more realistic, adaptive, and interdependent partnership.

Historical Reckoning as Democratic Infrastructure

This recalibration cannot be understood without acknowledging the pasts each nation struggles to fully confront. The visit to the Whitney Plantation brought into sharp relief how historical memory, or its absence, shapes democratic capacity. Many Americans learn little about the history of slavery in their own country, revealing a national reluctance to face the violence foundational to its development. Germany’s postwar approach—imperfect yet deliberate in its public reckoning—stands in contrast to the U.S., where slavery’s legacy continues to be unevenly taught, contested, and politicized.

“The reinvention of the West is inevitable.”

This divergence is more than academic. Nations that avoid continued and honest self-examination weaken the moral imagination required to sustain democratic resilience—fueling the same populist pressures that challenge both countries today. And yet, the dialogues in New Orleans demonstrated that a more transparent transatlantic partnership is possible. A relationship rooted in truth, rather than selective memory, can better navigate shifting power dynamics and rising internal fractures.

A Vision Forward

The “end of the West” is not inevitable. But the reinvention of the West is. Strengthening the U.S.–German alliance in this era of instability will require clarity, humility, and a shared commitment to historical truth as democratic infrastructure. What emerged in New Orleans is a blueprint for such renewal: a partnership anchored in realism, informed by local realities, and strengthened through collective courage to confront the past in order to imagine a more stable and just future.

This report was written by New Bridge Alumni Omaima Afzaal, Janhvi Bhojwani, Mayra Cedanor, Maggie Salas Crespo, Mario Futh, Alyssa Lukpat, Chase Phillips, Khadidah Stone, Eddie Taveras and Samantha Williams.

The New Bridge Program is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWE), and by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag Reckoning With a Restless World: Populism, Power, and the U.S.–German Alliance erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

The program began in Berlin, where we first got to know each other and received an initial thematic introduction through discussions with representatives from politics, academia, and public administration. Particularly memorable was the lecture by Prof. Sebastian Jobs from the John F. Kennedy Institute at Freie Universität Berlin, who vividly traced historical trajectories of U.S. politics and society – from American exceptionalism to the role of migration in shaping the economy and national identity.

[related]In Washington, D.C., we met with stakeholders from politics, media, and civil society. Conversations at institutions such as Future Caucus, NBC News, and the State Department provided a multifaceted view of American perspectives on security, democracy, and social change.

The third part of our journey took us to Detroit, where the realities of structural transformation and social change became immediately tangible. Discussions with representatives from Ford, trade unions, local initiatives, and city government underscored how closely economic renewal and social cohesion are intertwined. Detroit thus became a powerful symbol of how societies can actively shape change.

Transatlantic cooperation in transition

The discussions in Washington, D.C. confirmed that the transatlantic partnership continues to be a high priority for the United States. Europe is seen as a key factor for stability, and Germany is expected to take on more responsibility in security policy – particularly in cyber security, defense innovation, and energy independence. This stance makes it clear that it is less about US withdrawal and more about a reorientation of the partnership on an equal footing.

This impression was also confirmed at the German Embassy in Washington, D.C., particularly with regard to the media’s perception of the supposed isolation of the US. It was noticeable on the ground that the United States continues to attach great importance to multilateral cooperation, especially on issues such as climate protection, technology policy, and global security. American foreign policy today pays greater attention to its own interests, but continues to see international cooperation as a key instrument for tackling global challenges.

“The US expects Germany to take on a stronger leadership role within Europe”

At the US State Department, Paul Stucky, German Desk Officer, elaborated on this perspective. The US expects Germany to take on a stronger leadership role within Europe, particularly in building joint security architectures, supporting Ukraine, and countering authoritarian influence from China and Russia. Germany is seen as a bridge builder whose diplomatic credibility and mediation skills are crucial. The discussions showed that transatlantic cooperation is being redefined. It is evolving from a unilateral security guarantee to shared responsibility based on common values and mutual reliability.

Detroit as a mirror of structural change

Detroit showed that economic change is always also a social process. In discussions with initiatives such as the Design Build Green Hub and activists such as Martina Guzmán Miranda, it became clear how closely issues such as urban development, social inequality, and trust are linked. Unlike Germany, where the state often organizes structural support, many U.S. cities rely on local initiatives, philanthropic engagement, and cooperation with companies.

“Electromobility is understood not only as a technological transformation, but also as a social one”

Visits to the Ford Rouge Electric Vehicle Center and United Auto Workers Local 600 made the profound industrial change tangible. Here, electromobility is understood not only as a technological transformation, but also as a social one. Trade unions, companies, and urban society are working together to find ways to combine innovation with social stability. This approach can also be inspiring for European regions undergoing structural change.

The conversation with Abdullah Hammoud, the first mayor of Arab descent in the US, was particularly impressive. In Dearborn, we experienced how diversity, integration, and community strength can intertwine. The city is a prime example of active representation, civic engagement, and economic resilience. These encounters showed that social progress can only succeed if political participation and economic development are considered together.

Conclusion: New answers to old questions

Our trip made it clear that the transatlantic partnership is facing a period of renewal. In Washington, it was evident that the US expects initiative from Europe, not distance. In Detroit, it became apparent that change can only succeed when community, innovation, and inclusion work together. The supposed contradictions between economic transformation and social justice or between national interest and international responsibility cannot be completely resolved, but they can be constructively renegotiated.

The insights gained on site were not always clear-cut, but they always opened our eyes to a relationship characterized by pragmatism, mutual respect, and a shared desire to shape the future. This is precisely the bridge that the New Bridge Program is building and that we would like to continue to strengthen in the future.

We would like to thank Atlantik-Brücke, in particular Laura Vogel and Muhammed Ali Sen, for the excellent organization of the program, the Joachim Herz Foundation for its support, and all those who welcomed and accompanied us so warmly in Berlin, Washington, D.C., and Detroit. We look forward to now being part of this valuable network and actively shaping the transatlantic dialogue.

Fellows Johannes Aclassato, Fatima Hussain, and Oleksii Kysliak also shared insights they gained from the program. Watch the interviews here:

New Bridge to the US is supported by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag „A Reorientation of the Partnership on an Equal Footing“ erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

Der Beitrag New Bridge to the US: Class of 2025 erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

By Alyssa Lukpat, Khadidah Stone and Kevin McPherson

In a time of rising geopolitical tension, the 2025 New Bridge Program gave ten emerging American leaders the chance to explore transatlantic partnerships. Over 10 days in May, the fellows visited Washington, D.C., Brussels, Berlin, and Hamburg to meet with European policy makers, civic leaders, students, and business experts. They gained a deeper understanding of how shared democratic values are tested and sustained across borders.

This year’s cohort was diverse in discipline and in identity. Representing spheres including politics, healthcare, technology, media, and sustainability, the fellows were united by a desire to build transatlantic bridges.

The Evolving Transatlantic Relationship

Multiple speakers expressed concerns over the shifting relationship between Europe and the U.S. under President Trump. They discussed how the president’s attempts to isolate the U.S. are pushing Europe to invest more in NATO, climate work and its other trading partners. This was clearest at NATO headquarters in Brussels, where the cohort met with Nina Šoljan, head of NATO affairs and security policy. She underscored how NATO’s strength lies not just in military readiness but in its ability to adapt to political uncertainty.

“It was powerful to witness the deep dedication to maintaining a peaceful and stable Europe firsthand.”

[related]“With so many military and political shifts happening in the region, it was powerful to witness firsthand the deep dedication from the staff and its members to maintaining a peaceful and stable Europe,” said fellow Eddie Taveras, a political strategist.

The group further discussed transatlantic unity at the European Parliament, where Member Michael Bloss challenged the fellows to consider what long-term collaboration between democracies requires – especially on climate, digital regulation, and migration. At the Bundestag in Berlin, Parliamentarian Metin Hakverdi emphasized the enduring importance of coalition-building and civic engagement in countering political polarization.

For many fellows, these meetings offered a striking contrast to the American legislative environment. “One of the biggest takeaways for me is the role that compromise plays in Germany’s political system,” said Mae Abdelrahman, chief of staff at a workforce development nonprofit. “Seeing how a government could be structured around collaboration and consensus gave me a new appreciation for what’s possible—even if it’s not always easy”.

Germany’s Dark Past Informs Its Future

Another cornerstone of the program was Germany’s relationship with its history. From an academic briefing at Georgetown University to poignant visits to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the German Historical Institute, and Berlin’s public memorials, the fellows saw firsthand how Germany makes an effort to remember its darker days. The country designed its democratic system to prevent authoritarianism and safeguard minority rights.

“There’s a collective intentionality to German democracy – rooted in memory, but focused on accountability.”

“It was meaningful to see all the ways Germany’s systems and customs are a response to the past,” Mae reflected. “There’s a collective intentionality to their democracy that feels different – rooted in memory, but focused on accountability.”

Jason Posley, a public-health advocate from St. Louis, said he would take these lessons back to the marginalized communities he works with. “Germany shows a lot of respect for its history, even the hard parts,” he said. “Knowing the history behind the issues we’re trying to solve helps us get to the root of the problem, not just the surface.”

Many fellows discussed their belief that Germany has overcorrected itself since the war. For example, the group had long discussions about the benefits and downsides of Germany not collecting race data from citizens, a practice that was exploited in the Holocaust.

Walking through the Berlin Wall Memorial, the Brandenburg Gate, and the Reichstag dome, the cohort witnessed how architecture and public space can become tools of civic education. These were reminders that democracy requires visibility, participation, and constant reflection.

Innovation Rooted in People

The fellows engaged deeply with German models of innovation in education, health, and climate. In Hamburg, the fellows attended a workshop to meet young professionals who entered vocational training and forgoed additional schooling. The mentoring and scholarship network Schotstek and the Joachim Herz Stiftung hosted a workshop to highlight how Germany’s dual-education system blends academic instruction with on-the-job experience. “The students shared how their training prepared them for multiple futures – not just one career path,” Mae said. “It made me think about how we can design more flexible, empowering models of education in the U.S.”

“In the U.S., we often celebrate speed of innovation, sometimes at the cost of patient trust or transparency.”

Technology and healthcare were central themes as well. At a roundtable at Microsoft Berlin and a three-hour dinner conversation with Shireen Saxena of AI healthcare company Ada Health, they shared conversations about artificial intelligence and Germany’s strict data-privacy laws. “We discussed how Germany’s strong data protection policies influence what’s possible with AI in healthcare,” noted fellow Kevin McPherson, a machine learning engineer. “In the U.S., we often celebrate speed of innovation, sometimes at the cost of patient trust or transparency. It was eye-opening to see the trade-offs more clearly.”

At Adelphi, a sustainability think tank, the group explored Germany’s clean energy transition and the role that transatlantic cooperation plays in driving innovation. They learned about how climate leaders are translating high-level policy into tangible efforts, from port logistics to carbon targets, reinforcing the notion that global problems demand shared solutions.

Lasting Impressions and Common Purpose

What set the New Bridge Program apart wasn’t just access to institutions, but the collective learning. Through shared meals, long airplane rides, and cultural immersion, the fellows found in one another wellsprings of insight, humor, and solidarity. They pushed each other to think harder, speak up, and reflect deeper.

Fellow Eddie Taveras summed it up best: “What I’ll take back with me is a deeper understanding of how history, culture, and politics shape national identity–and how that identity influences a country’s place in the world. From witnessing the commitment at NATO to engaging in tough but necessary conversations about race, equity, and partnership, I leave with a sharper lens on how transatlantic relations can evolve”.

In the end, the 2025 New Bridge cohort left Europe with more than just stamps in their passports. They gained a richer view of what democracy looks like in practice and developed a renewed sense of purpose about building transatlantic bridges that can withstand the storms ahead.

For more insights into the trip, watch these interviews with our fellows:

New Bridge to Germany is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), and by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag “I leave with a sharper lens on how transatlantic relations can evolve” erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

On the sidelines of the event, we interviewed Armand Zorn about the regulation of AI, European Social Media platforms and the fight against misinformation.

Der Beitrag AI: Consider not only the risks, but also the benefits erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

We are honored to introduce: 

Mae Abdelrahman is the Chief of Staff at The Collective Blueprint, a workforce development nonprofit with a mission to increase socioeconomic mobility by building pathways to thriving careers. In her role, she leads strategic operations to support organizational growth and systemic change. Mae began her career in education as a Teach For America corps member, earning a master’s degree in teaching while teaching in K-12 classrooms. Later, she worked in higher education as a Harvard Business School Leadership Fellow at The Juilliard School, focusing on strategy in the Offices of the President and COO. Mae also has experience in finance, having worked as an underwriter and private equity investor, where she developed her firm’s education investment thesis. Mae holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, graduating as a Baker Scholar in the top 5% of her class, and a BA in Economics modified with Arabic from Dartmouth College. As a Sudanese American, she brings a unique perspective on global education and economic systems to the New Bridge Program.

Marianne Boules is the Founder and CEO of Boules Consulting, where she empowers mission-driven organizations through strategic planning, public policy expertise, and social impact innovation. With both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Public Policy—graduating top of her class and earning a full graduate scholarship—Marianne has built a career helping governments, corporations, and nonprofits design impactful, sustainable solutions. Her firm has secured over $85 million in funding for clients working in economic development, climate resilience, and workforce innovation. Known for her ability to bridge the gap between public policy and private action, Marianne is deeply committed to “helping the helper.” Her work centers on creating meaningful change by aligning strategy with purpose, and she is a sought-after speaker, advocate, and collaborator in the fight for a resilient future.

Alyssa Lukpat is a breaking news reporter at The Wall Street Journal in New York. She covers the biggest stories of the day and enjoys writing about politics, elections and law. She has covered campus protests, the 2024 election and changes under the Trump administration. Originally from California, Alyssa studied journalism at Northeastern University and received a student Emmy award for her reporting in Panama. She earned a master’s degree in data journalism at Columbia Journalism School. Her first job was at The New York Times, where she spent a year reporting breaking news. She previously had stints covering metro news at The Boston Globe and The News & Observer. In her free time, she enjoys doing community theater, watching reality TV and going to spin and Pilates classes.

Kevin McPherson is a senior machine learning engineer and technology founder focused on building AI systems that promote transparency, security, and social good. He currently leads the development of AI-driven compliance tools at Schellman and co-founded Philanthrobotics, an initiative recognized in the Chronicle of Philanthropy for its role in democratizing open grants data. Kevin previously spearheaded machine learning efforts at Trustpage (acquired by Vanta), launching LLM-based products with multimillion-dollar ARR impact. He brings experience across mental health tech, public-sector research, and startup environments, with a track record that spans the NIH to Silicon Valley. A former NIH UGSP and Venture for America Fellow, Kevin is passionate about interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly at the intersection of technology, storytelling, and justice.

Sarah Nesbit is a dynamic social impact leader dedicated to advancing equity, sustainability, and community empowerment. She currently serves as a thought leader on the External Affairs team at Capital One, where she evaluates initiatives with a lens toward social responsibility. Sarah is a 2023 GreenBiz 30 Under 30 honoree, a 2024 U.S. Black Chambers Power 50 Under 40 honoree, and Co-Founder of BlackOak Collective, a growing network providing free professional development resources to a community of 500+ Black environmental professionals. Her experience spans policy analysis for elected officials in congressional leadership, political organizing, climate storytelling, and corporate philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase. She holds a BA in Political Science from the College of Charleston and a dual MM/MSc in Business Management and Global Luxury Management from NC State and the Skema Business School of Paris. Outside of work, Sarah has a strong interest in sustainable fashion and is an active eco-creative advocate for responsible innovation within the personal luxury industry. A native of Columbia, SC and rooted in her family’s Gullah-Geechee heritage, She is passionate about creating systems that center people, planet, and purpose across industries.

Jason Posley is a passionate advocate for health equity, dedicated to addressing systemic disparities and improving outcomes for underserved communities. With a Master of Health Administration (MHA) from Webster University and a Health Science degree from Maryville University, he has four years of experience working with rural and disparate populations. Jason currently serves as Project Manager of Infant/Maternal Health Initiatives for BJC Healthcare’s Community Health Improvement Team, where he focuses on integrating doulas into clinical care, developing community partnerships, and shaping hospital policies to improve maternal and infant health outcomes. He also holds a Certificate in Neighborhood Leadership from MU Extension and serves as a Board Member for Habitat for Humanity Saint Louis and Gateway Equity Institute, working to advance community development and health equity on a broader scale.

Khadidah Stone is a native of Montgomery, Alabama. Her journey began at age 14 when she championed her father’s cause, unjustly sentenced to sixty years for selling marijuana. Through relentless advocacy, she secured his release in 2016, igniting a lifelong commitment to justice. Her extensive background spans nonprofit, advocacy, and political spheres, with impactful roles at the Alabama House of Representatives, Feminist Majority Foundation, Black Future’s Lab and more. Currently she is the Director of Network Capacity for a civic engagement coalition, Alabama Forward. Outside her advocacy, Khadidah enjoys reading, gardening, hosting her podcast, and cherishing moments with family and friends, embodying James Baldwin’s wisdom: “Ignorance allied with power is the most ferocious enemy justice can have.

Nabeela Syed represents Illinois’ 51st District in the State House, becoming the youngest woman elected and the first Muslim and South Asian woman in the legislature. She has championed key issues, including property tax relief, gun safety, and healthcare affordability. Nabeela passed a law to prevent price gouging of off-patent and generic drugs, ensured paid time off for organ donors, reduced barriers for mental health professionals to obtain licenses, and increased transparency from utility companies. She serves as Vice-Chairperson of the Health Care Availability & Access Committee and is serving her second term in the Illinois State House.

Eddie Taveras is a political strategist specializing in coalition-building, public engagement, strategic communications, and legislative advocacy. He employs data-driven methods, microtargeting, and geotargeting to influence decision-makers and drive policy impact. His work has secured national media placements in Bloomberg, Axios, The Wall Street Journal, Univision, POLITICO, and more. Eddie has managed multimillion-dollar voter mobilization and advocacy campaigns, helping pass four state laws and allocate $1.6 million in grants. He played a key role in NYC Mayor Eric Adams’ 2021 Transition immigration committee and serves as the executive officer and board member of the New York Immigration Coalition. With expertise in cross-sector collaboration, he has led bilingual media efforts across digital, print, and radio.

William Wilkinson is the Senior Tribal Policy & Government Relations Advisor at CK Tribal Consulting, where he advances sovereignty, equity, and strategic growth through expertise in government innovation, economic development, and intergovernmental affairs. He previously served as a political appointee in the Biden-Harris Administration at the U.S. Department of Energy, where he helped accelerate the clean energy transition, strengthen climate resilience, and drive innovation through cross-sector collaboration and policy leadership. Will’s work sits at the intersection of law, policy, and technology, with a focus on inclusive governance, regulatory reform, and systems-level change. He has been featured at Google’s Product Inclusion and Equity Summit, named a 2025 Aspen Ideas Festival Fellow, participated in the Tribal Leadership Executive Program at Harvard Business School, and is an alum of the Udall Foundation. Will holds an MS in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University and a BS in Business Administration from Haskell Indian Nations University

New Bridge to Germany is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), and by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag New Bridge to Germany: Class of 2025 erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

The New Bridge Program is more than just an opportunity; it’s a transformative journey that reshapes how young professionals view the connections between Germany and the United States. As a fully funded fellowship, the program creates a space for emerging leaders to engage with history, culture, and critical conversations around global challenges.

This video was created to offer a glimpse into the New Bridge Fellowship by following our most recent American cohort. Comprising 10 fellows from different states and diverse career backgrounds—including journalists, elected officials, and activists—this cohort exemplifies the program’s mission to amplify underrepresented voices in transatlantic relations.

For many participants, like Darrin Camilleri, who shares his experience in the video, the program offers a deeply transformative educational journey. As they walk through Berlin, history comes to life—moving beyond the pages of textbooks. Iconic landmarks like Checkpoint Charlie, the Brandenburg Gate, and the German Parliament offer a tangible connection to the shared histories of the transatlantic community. Fellows don’t merely visit these sites—they engage in meaningful conversations with high-ranking officials and parliamentarians, enriching their understanding of both historical events and modern-day politics.

Yet, the New Bridge Program isn’t just about looking back; it’s about forging a future together. As Alex Schyllander reflects in the video, the program offers more than learning from speakers and mentors—it’s a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside peers. The bonds formed here promise to extend beyond borders and endure well into the future. These lifelong connections are a testament to the program’s ability to inspire collaboration and understanding across continents.

In their travels, fellows explored shared challenges and discovered that differences, although present, are not insurmountable. By collaborating and exchanging perspectives, they strengthen the ties that unite the transatlantic community in addressing today’s global challenges.

Are you interested in becoming a fellow? Find more information on the requirements of participation here.

New Bridge to Germany is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), and by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag A Glimpse into the New Bridge to Germany Program erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

Here is what they learned.

In your opinion, what are the most significant challenges businesses and leaders face today?

Enver Cetin: In my opinion, businesses and leaders today face several significant challenges that are reshaping the corporate landscape. One of the most pressing is the rapid technological advancement occurring across industries. The pace of innovation, especially in areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation, is accelerating at an unprecedented rate. Companies often struggle to keep up with these developments, as new technologies can quickly render existing business models obsolete. This relentless progression requires organizations to be agile and forward-thinking to remain competitive.

Another critical challenge is the talent shortage and skills gap. There is a growing demand for skilled professionals in tech fields. However, the supply of qualified talent is not keeping pace with this demand, making it difficult for businesses to adopt new technologies effectively. This shortage hampers innovation and can stall digital transformation initiatives, as organizations lack the necessary expertise to implement and manage advanced technological solutions.

The changing workforce dynamics also present significant challenges. The rise of remote work, the gig economy, and the expectations of younger generations for flexibility and purpose in their careers require leaders to rethink traditional management practices. Millennials and Generation Z employees often prioritize work-life balance, meaningful work, and alignment with their personal values. Leaders must adapt by creating more flexible work environments, fostering inclusive cultures, and offering opportunities for professional growth to attract and retain top talent.

Lastly, global economic uncertainty poses a formidable challenge. Geopolitical tensions, trade disputes, and fluctuating markets create an unpredictable environment that complicates strategic planning and investment decisions. Factors such as international trade policies, currency volatility, and shifting alliances can have immediate and significant impacts on global supply chains and market access. Businesses must navigate these uncertainties while remaining resilient and adaptable to sudden changes in the economic landscape.

Nicole Jackson Mansch: As part of the New Bridge Program in Berlin, we heard from workforce leaders and subject matter experts who detailed several key challenges that may yield long-term impacts on the German economy. An aging workforce, attracting and retaining skilled labor, and meeting growing demands for remote work environments amongst Gen Z employees all pose important questions for businesses, companies, and major employers in the future.

In the U.S., President-Elect Donald Trump may issue regulations that remove essential protections for American workers. Moving forward, this presents a number of challenges for many vulnerable and marginalized populations, such as low-paid salaried workers. For example, the Trump Administration may rescind an overtime pay rule issued by the U.S. Department of Labor that broadened the population of workers who received additional pay for hours worked beyond their standard 40-hour work week. A report published by the Economic Policy Institute, an American research organization and thinktank, found that adjustments made to the overtime rule in the U.S. during Trump’s first term resulted in roughly 8.2 million workers losing access to overtime pay. A number of other worker protections in the U.S. may be at risk during a Trump presidency, threatening the safety and security of workers across the country.

Joseph Langner: The most pressing issues I currently see for leaders on both sides of the Atlantic are rapid technological change, demographic shifts, and conflicts between short and long-term objectives.

Regarding technological change, leaders need to be okay with and ready for the fact that development “plateaus” are effectively gone. There is no longer a “state-of-the-art,” but rather a “change-of-the-art.” Having to constantly adapt to these changes requires even more clarity in one’s mission and a moral compass to guide through difficult challenges.

Demographic shifts, especially given an aging population in Germany, will ask leaders to put a lot more responsibility into the hands of a much younger and smaller workforce. According to a recently released study by the German Ministry of Economics (BMWK), over the next ten years, the workforce will face a net (!) decline of roughly 400.000 people. Beyond finding short-term solutions to these issues, we will need to find long-term structural levers such as an increase in female and migrant labor market participation and increases in productivity – again through embracing technological changes.

Monoswita Saha: Technology is front and center – whether that is cybersecurity, AI, data management, or basic digital skills. Technology is a means of competition at small, medium and large scale, from local to global. How to best keep up, modernize, and stay competitive while keeping an eye towards sustainable practices is a challenge. In my view, cultivating and engaging a diverse talent pipeline to grapple with and solve these challenges is equally important. The extent to which there is equal access and opportunity in these fields impacts the overall economic resiliency and stability of communities and countries. Perhaps this is two sides of the same coin.

If you could give one piece of advice to leaders on how to “futureproof,” what would it be?

Enver Cetin: My one piece of advice to leaders on how to futureproof their organizations is to embrace adaptability as a core principle. In a world where change is constant, the ability to adjust swiftly to new technologies, market shifts, and evolving customer preferences is essential for sustained success. Embracing adaptability means fostering a culture that encourages innovation, continuous learning, and openness to change at all levels of the organization. Leaders should empower employees to experiment with new ideas without fear of failure, as this can lead to breakthroughs and improvements. Investing in employee development is crucial; by providing opportunities for upskilling and reskilling, organizations ensure their workforce remains competent in the latest technologies and methodologies. Staying informed about industry trends and being willing to challenge traditional ways of doing business can help organizations anticipate changes rather than simply react to them. By making adaptability a fundamental part of the company’s ethos, leaders can better navigate uncertainties, seize new opportunities, and maintain a competitive edge in an ever-evolving landscape. This proactive approach enables organizations to not only survive but thrive amid the complexities of the modern business environment.

[related]Nicole Jackson Mansch: To futureproof their workforce, leaders should invest in creating good, high-quality jobs for their employees. In the U.S., this means these jobs provide retirement benefits, offer health insurance coverage, provide sick leave and paid family leave, and allow workers the right to organize and engage in collective bargaining to improve their protections and get their fair share of earnings. Adhering to the above good job principles makes companies an employer of choice and give these organizations a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining the talent they need to continue innovating.

Joseph Langner: Organizations and leadership need to embrace constant change, not constants.

Monoswita Saha: Future proofing is about people proofing. The challenges will not solve themselves. Do we have and are we curating the skills and solutions-oriented mindsets to meet the future challenges head on? Are leaders investing in inclusive and diverse talent pipelines in the core areas for their businesses, organizations, and institutions? I put an emphasis on “inclusive and diverse” because without this attention, the future proofing is only for the benefit of the select already privileged few in the global scheme of things.

How do the challenges and solutions surrounding the future of work differ between the U.S. and Germany, and what best practices or lessons can both sides learn from each other? 

Enver Cetin: The United States and Germany face different challenges and have developed distinct approaches to the future of work due to their unique cultural, economic, and regulatory environments. In the U.S., the labor market is characterized by its flexibility, which fosters innovation and entrepreneurship but can also lead to less job security and benefits for workers. The American approach often emphasizes individualism and a free-market economy, resulting in rapid technological adoption but also a widening skills gap. The education system sometimes struggles to keep pace with industry needs. Germany, on the other hand, has a more regulated labor market with strong worker protections, offering greater job security and comprehensive benefits. The German vocational training system, known as the dual education system, effectively integrates classroom learning with on-the-job training, producing a skilled workforce aligned with industry needs. However, this system can also lead to rigidity, making it more challenging for businesses to adapt quickly to technological changes and market demands. German companies may be more cautious in adopting new technologies due to a cultural preference for thoroughness and risk aversion. Both countries have valuable lessons to offer each other. The U.S. could benefit from Germany’s emphasis on vocational training and workforce development, helping to bridge the skills gap by preparing students with practical, job-ready skills. Adopting some of Germany’s worker protection policies could improve job satisfaction and productivity in the U.S., leading to a more committed and stable workforce. Conversely, Germany could learn from the U.S. culture of entrepreneurship and innovation. Embracing a more agile approach to business could help German companies adapt more rapidly to technological advancements and global market shifts. Encouraging a calculated risk-taking mindset might stimulate innovation and competitiveness. Additionally, adopting flexible work arrangements, such as remote work and flexible hours, could enhance work-life balance and attract a broader talent pool.

Nicole Jackson Mansch: Germany’s aging workforce serves as one key distinguishing factor from the U.S. To attract talent, Germany has instituted a number of unique visas and partnerships with other countries to encourage skilled labor, such as in nursing, tech and engineering, to settle and work in the country. On the other hand, in the U.S., many universities serve as innovation hubs, spurring the development of new ideas and providing international students with unique skillsets the chance to create creative business concepts. Germany provides a strong social safety net for Germans – including paid parental leave after the birth of a child. The U.S. has not yet instituted federal paid parental leave, despite the work of prominent advocates like Melinda French Gates, American philanthropist and former Microsoft manager.

Joseph Langner: Germany and Europe will likely take a much longer time to implement technological advances than the U.S. However, this also provides more time to reflect on societal impacts of these changes, e.g., AI in the workplace. Smart regulation (both in organizations and legally) is a potential European differentiator while the U.S. will likely continue to drive major innovation (with relatively much less regulation). As both our governments are currently in a transition phase, it is up to leaders in other sectors to set impulses and push new solutions without waiting for public forward guidance.

Monoswita Saha: Germany is ahead of the game in its approach to labor laws and its apprenticeship models. Though one can make the argument that too strict labor laws stifles innovation and investment, there is a tangible benefit to social stability from these protections. The apprenticeship model is one that I believe the U.S. should implement at a higher and more expansive rate – and with that, also address the stigma that is attached to candidates who do not have the traditional four-year college or university degree. These degrees have always been and are increasingly cost-prohibitive for many. On the U.S. side, this is a country that rewards risks – or at least that is how I have found it through personal experience. It is possible for entrepreneurs to try and fail and try and fail until they fine tune a model that works. It is a blend of mindset and financial structures. It is by no means perfect. Failure does not need to ruin a career or the family savings plan for life.  There is such a thing as American optimism, and for me, a solutions-oriented approach is half the battle.

Our Experts:

Enver Cetin is a Senior Manager of AI at Ciklum, based in Munich, Germany, where he excels in deploying the latest technologies, including Generative AI. An expert in this cutting-edge field, Enver leads strategic implementations, driving innovation and transforming business processes with AI solutions. Previously, he headed the Process and Digital Excellence team at a logistics company, where he crafted a digital excellence roadmap that significantly reduced administrative times and improved operations through strategic integration of automation and data analysis. With a Master’s in Business Consulting & Digital Management and a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Enver combines deep technical expertise with a profound understanding of digital transformation’s societal impacts. Outside of work, Enver is an avid traveler and tech enthusiast. When not pioneering AI solutions, you can find him exploring new cultures, running marathons, or engaging in political and economic exchanges. His curiosity and love for learning drive his innovative spirit in both life and work.

Nicole Jackson currently serves as White House Liaison at the U.S. Department of Labor as part of the Biden-Harris Administration. Prior to joining the Department, Nicole was the Deputy Associate Director of Policy at the White House in the Office of Dr. Jill Biden. Before joining the Biden-Harris Administration, Nicole worked in Mayor Mike Duggan’s Office of Workforce Development in Detroit, Michigan. While there, she led a temporary work experience program for returning citizens during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has also held roles at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and she previously interned at the White House Domestic Policy Council during the Obama Administration. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies from Stanford University and received her M.S. in Community Health and Prevention Research (CHPR) from the Stanford University School of Medicine.

Joseph Langner is a Co-Managing Director at JoinPolitics, a non-partisan, non-profit incubator for political talents in Germany. Joseph’s work focuses on developing new approaches to political entrepreneurship, innovation, and funding to promote and strengthen democracy in Germany and Europe. Joseph is a member of the Grantmaking Council of Multitudes Foundation, an advisor to the 2hearts Community, and a supporter of the Afro-Diasporic Academics Network (ADAN e.V.). Previously, he worked as a consultant to European institutions as a Project Manager and Chief of Staff in the Public Sector & Digital Practices at Oliver Wyman. Joseph studied Business Administration, Philosophy, and Economics at the University of Mannheim and the WASEDA Business School in Tokyo. He is a scholar of the Deutschlandstiftung Integration and a former national board member of AIESEC in Germany.

Monoswita Saha is a driven leader who is committed to fostering ecosystems for equity. Monoswita is the CSR Global Employee Engagement Leader and Advisor to the Kyndryl Foundation for Kyndryl, the world’s largest provider of IT infrastructure services. Monoswita drives a global engagement strategy that harnesses Kyndryl’s expertise and values to drive enduring impact. Additionally, Monoswita plays a pivotal role in launching the Kyndryl Foundation within two years of Kyndryl becoming a public company, a milestone moment for the company. Previously, Monoswita led the global implementation and network engagement strategy for Pathways and Technology (P-TECH), IBM’s marquee Corporate Social Responsibility program that aims to create an alternative pathway for young people in low-income communities to find meaningful employment in STEM careers. Monoswita drove innovation, communications, thought leadership, and foundational learning for a network that spanned over 25 countries. Monoswita holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and English from the University of Connecticut and a master’s degree in public administration from the Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs.

A huge thank you to the German Federal Foreign Office (AA) for making this alumni engagement opportunity possible.

Der Beitrag The Future of Work: Challenges and the Way Forward erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

Video Credits: David Rosario Dro Photo & Video – Lead Photographer & Lead Videographer

At the end of October, we had the pleasure of bringing together over 50 New Bridge alumni from across Germany and the U.S. in vibrant Miami to deepen our transatlantic bonds and explore solutions to today’s global challenges. This is their report.

By Silas Burris, Omaima Afzaal, Raze Baziani, Innokenty Burshteyn, and Nicholas Courtney

Day 1: New Bridge Program Arrives in Miami

In true Miami fashion, our first evening began at a vibrant bar by the harbor, with the shimmering city skyline in the backdrop. After dozens of warm greetings and introductions, New Bridge alumni listened to opening remarks from German Consul General Christofer Burger. His speech emphasized the importance of community, thanking us for our role as ambassadors of German-American friendship. “You are actually doing my job,” he said, acknowledging our commitment as a bridge between cultures and urging us to carry these values back to our communities. “We need you to share this message—that we’re stronger together and that together, we can be a force for good.”

Anoja Perinpanathan, from the newest German cohort, shared her experience:

“It feels like our fellowship just ended, yet here we are together again in Miami. I’m thrilled to meet everyone, especially during this exciting time leading up to the U.S. elections—it’s such a unique chance to connect with American fellows.”

The evening continued with stimulating perspectives from special guests, including representatives from Germany’s Federal Foreign Office and one of our panelists for the next day, Evelyn Pérez-Verdía. It was a successful start and sparked inspiration for the days to come.

Day 2: Transatlantic Dialogue and Exploration

Saturday morning’s program began with a land acknowledgement from New Bridge alumna Cheyenne Kippenberger—a citizen of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, Chilean American advocate for Indigenous people, and a former Miss Indian World. Cheyenne grounded us with her words as she recognized the original stewards of what is now Florida and educated the group about the unique aspects of tribal governments.

It wouldn’t be a New Bridge event without addressing the biggest topic on many of our minds: the upcoming U.S. presidential elections. New Bridge alumni Joseph Langner and Steven Sainz moderated a discussion on the global implications and key issues shaping the election, featuring four experts on local and international politics. Moises Benhabib, Senior Director at Juvare Federal and Defense and Board Member at Miami’s World Affairs Council, weighed in on how a potential Harris presidency would reinvigorate the U.S.A.’s participation in international alliances such as the Paris Agreement and UNRWA, while a Trump presidency would place much greater focus on implementing trade tariffs. Dr. Markus Thiel, a professor of political and international relations at Florida International University, remarked that Europe will face challenges regardless of the result and will likely face pressure to provide more of their own security funding for NATO. The speakers frequently brought up the issue of disinformation and the risk it poses to democracy. Evelyn Pérez-Verdía, Founder of We Are Más, underscored that threat, characterizing disinformation as “digital, global, and borderless,” while Hon. Anna Hochkammer, a councilmember of the Village of Pinecrest, Florida, emphasized that disinformation affects constituents at even the most local levels—and that micro issues are often what voters care about the most. New Bridge alumni brought critical questions from both sides of the Atlantic for the panel and expressed appreciation for the professional, fact-based dialogue the panelists brought forth.

The alumni body continued to engage in transatlantic discussions regarding four critical global issues: security, trade, climate, and technology. These were moderated by New Bridge alumni and included subject matter experts who both challenged and engaged critical discussion across two consecutive panel sessions.

• The “Trade and Investment” panel was moderated by Khalid Sarsour and Maycaa Hannon, with guest speaker Tobias Borawski, Managing Director of ASTARAS and Florida Chapter Director of the German American Chambers of Commerce. The panel provided an overview of the global trading system and how the U.S. and Germany are experimenting with new ways of trade in response to growing populism, and our economic impact on one another. Borawski then provided an on-the-ground perspective on how new trade policies are shaping business in both countries.
• The “Security: Russia and Ukraine” panel was moderated by Azadê Peşmen and Rita Lieder and featured international relations experts Michael Szanto and Dr. Dina Moulioukova, who helped dissect the intricacies of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Russian identity. The panel explored the geopolitical chessboard, shedding light on the strategic implications of Russia’s nuclear arsenal and its potential to dominate the escalation game.
• The “Climate Corporation: Energy and Sustainability” panel featured University of Miami School of Law, Climate & Environmental law Fellow, Renee Valerie Fajardo, and was moderated by New Bridge alumni Carlos Carrillo and Samantha E. Williams. Discussions varied from global mechanisms of accountability to framing energy independence as a form of security: using the German-Russian relationship as an example of what occurs when a country becomes too energy-dependent on another.
• The “Tech and Innovation” panel delved into the complex and rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence featuring the founder of Hummingbirds AI and the Miami AI Club, Nima Schei, MD. The conversation was moderated by Monoswita Saha and Enver Cetin. The discussion began with an introduction to AI learning and its applications and then shifted to a critical analysis of AI’s potential benefits and risks, with a special emphasis on the ethical implications of its ongoing development.

After soaking up the morning’s thought-provoking panels, we had lunch together before boarding the bus for a lively, captivating tour of Miami. In addition to pointing out iconic architecture and sharing anecdotes about famous residents, the tour delved into the innovative solutions Miami employs to navigate its unique geography, ensuring seamless connectivity across waterways and resilience in the face of its tropical climate. The tour concluded with a spontaneous celebration of Rejoice Jones‘s birthday, as the second level of the bus turned into a stage for an impromptu karaoke session.

Day 3: Everything Alumni

[related]The final day of the reunion opened with an icebreaker led by Esra Güner and Alexandra McGee, who blasted popular American and German songs, pausing at intervals for rapid personal questions, and then resuming the DJ-ing again. In these thirty minutes, we laughed, danced, and got to know people we had not yet spoken to at the reunion.

The New Bridge Alumni Council, chaired by Whitney Terrill, presented the Council Activity Report to us, followed by presentations from Julian Pecora and Prof. Dr. Narku Laing who provided overviews of the German-American Conference in Washington, DC, and the Transatlantic Forum on GeoEconomics in New York City, respectively.

 The final farewell remarks were given by New Bridge Program’s Assistant Program Manager, Hamda Yusef, who shared the joy of being a part of this unique and wonderfully diverse group of leaders around the world. During these final moments Hamda also presented the Program’s first Outstanding Alumni Awards to Rejoice Jones, Alexandra McGee, and Jeff Aguy.

The three days of the reunion flew by but left us invigorated with new perspectives, meaningful connections, and excitement for all the New Bridge opportunities to come.

The NEW BRIDGE PROGRAM is supported by the Transatlantic Program of the Federal Republic of Germany, funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK), and by the Joachim Herz Foundation.

Der Beitrag New Bridge Program: Alumni Unite in Miami! erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

Verfasst von Rita Lieder, Azadê Peşmen, Yen Dieu Pham

Am sechsten Juni begann die Reise der zweiten deutschen Kohorte des New Bridge Programms. Gleich zu Beginn wurde eines schnell klar: Es ist eine Gruppe neun diverser Menschen, aus verschiedenen Berufsfeldern, mit unterschiedlichen Perspektiven.

Beim ersten offiziellen Programmpunkt konnten sich die Fellows mit einigen der Vertreter*innen der Organisationen austauschen, die das Programm unterstützen, wie das Auswärtige Amt, die Neuen Deutschen Medienmacher*innen, die Deutschlandstiftung Integration und Schotstek sowie mit Alumni aus der ersten Kohorte. Der erste inhaltliche Termin unserer Reise fand am nächsten Tag im Auswärtigen Amt statt, in einem Raum, der nach einer bedeutenden Diplomatin benannt wurde: Elinor von Puttkammer. Dort nahm sich Staatsminister Dr. Tobias Lindner Zeit, um zu erklären, wie wichtig die transatlantischen Beziehungen für die Sicherheit Europas und vor allem für die Sicherheit Deutschlands sind. Er gab uns den Rat mit auf den Weg, unser eigenes Bild der USA, das wir bereits haben, kritisch zu hinterfragen. Bei der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Außenpolitik (DGAP) hat uns Dr. Dominik Tolksdorf mit all dem Wissen ausgestattet, das wir für die Reise in die USA brauchen: das politische System der USA, der Unterschied zwischen federal und state politics und nicht zuletzt das Thema, in dessen Schatten die komplette Reise steht: die Präsidentschaftswahl im November.

Wir diskutierten über unterschiedliche Wählergruppen, die relevanten Wahlkampfthemen und welche Positionen die beiden Kandidaten vertreten. Es deutete sich an, was sich auf der Reise, aber auch in dem darauffolgenden Termin bestätigte: Die US-amerikanische Gesellschaft ist tief gespalten. Und diese Polarisierung ist dem System inhärent, wie uns Theresa “Tsesa” Monaghan, Beraterin von Michael Link, dem Koordinator für transatlantische Zusammenarbeit, und Ana Ramic, Vice President und Chief of Staff der American Academy in Berlin, erklärten. Sie kennen sowohl die deutsche als auch die US-amerikanische Gesellschaft sehr gut und haben uns nähergebracht, worin die kulturellen Unterschiede beider Länder liegen. Der Journalist Martin Klingst, der seit vielen Jahren aus und über die USA berichtet, war ebenfalls Teil der Gesprächsrunde. Er hat uns auf etwas aufmerksam gemacht, das wir mit den Stationen Washington D.C., Atlanta und Montgomery wenige Tage später selbst erleben würden: Es gibt nicht ein Amerika, sondern mehrere Amerikas.

Der Beitrag Continuing to Build Bridges erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

We are honored to introduce: 

Enver Cetin is a Senior Manager of AI at Ciklum, based in Munich, Germany, where he excels in deploying the latest technologies, including Generative AI. An expert in this cutting-edge field, Enver leads strategic implementations, driving innovation and transforming business processes with AI solutions. Previously, he headed the Process and Digital Excellence team at a logistics company, where he crafted a digital excellence roadmap that significantly reduced administrative times and improved operations through strategic integration of automation and data analysis. With a Master’s in Business Consulting & Digital Management from FOM Munich and a Bachelor’s in Computer Science from DHBW Heidenheim, Enver combines deep technical expertise with a profound understanding of digital transformation’s societal impacts.

Loubna Doudouh is a passionate advocate for empowerment and inclusivity and currently serves as the Executive Director of Muslimisches Jugendwerk (“Muslim youth organization”). In this role, she oversees educational initiatives and intercultural and interreligious dialogues. Loubna started her leadership journey at Teach First Germany, where she delved deep into the structures of Germany’s educational landscape and witnessed the systemic injustices and structural discrimination of students first-hand. With a passion for videography, Loubna also amplifies the voices of marginalized individuals through film, shedding light on narratives that challenge societal norms. She earned a bachelor’s degree in international relations.

Mario Futh is currently pursuing his PhD in Political Science at Leipzig University, researching conservative and right-wing parties in East German election campaigns. His research focuses on the areas of gender, migration, and homeland and uses discourse and situational analysis. Mario’s life has been a journey of self-improvement, from working-class roots to earning a doctoral degree at the end of 2024. From 2008 until 2012, he worked as a nurse and then decided to realize his dream of studying. Mario earned his bachelor’s degree in social sciences and philosophy and his master’s in political science. After graduation, he worked as a researcher on a project on identity, German communities, and the logics of exclusion which informed his doctoral research interest.

Maycaa Hannon is shaping the sustainable energy landscape of the future. As a policy and regulations manager, she passionately advocates for regulatory frameworks that support the development of large-scale hydrogen supply chains. She obtained a master’s degree in economics and politics, during which she discovered her passion for foreign trade promotion. Maycaa turned her interest into action, working for both the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) and the private sector, promoting German companies and enabling their export to foreign markets. She has worked in multiple cities, including Berlin, Cairo, and Abu Dhabi. As Co-founder of the SWANS Initiative, she strongly believes in the power of a diverse society. SWANS is an award-winning NGO that has championed over 1,000 young women facing intersectional discrimination and promotes their adequate representation in the academic workforce.

Joseph Langner is a Co-Managing Director at JoinPolitics, a non-partisan, non-profit incubator for political talents in Germany. Joseph’s work focuses on developing new approaches to political entrepreneurship, innovation, and funding to promote and strengthen democracy in Germany and Europe. Joseph is a member of the Grantmaking Council of Multitudes Foundation, an advisor to the 2hearts Community, and a supporter of the Afro-Diasporic Academics Network (ADAN e.V.). Previously, he worked as a consultant to European institutions as a Project Manager and Chief of Staff in the Public Sector & Digital Practices at Oliver Wyman. Joseph studied Business Administration, Philosophy, and Economics at the University of Mannheim and the WASEDA Business School in Tokyo. He is a scholar of the Deutschlandstiftung Integration and a former national board member of AIESEC in Germany.

Rita Lieder serves as a policy advisor for internal and legal affairs for a parliamentary group in the German Bundestag. She also works as an attorney in court-appointed cases for migration and criminal law. Rita was born in Kherson, Ukraine, and grew up in Kyiv. She came to Germany when she was 15 years old to attend a boarding school in Bavaria. Rita quickly became fond of the German language and decided to stay. She studied law at Humboldt University in Berlin, specializing in criminal law, and passed her bar exam in 2023. Being interested in theater, she also founded a drama club during her time in university. While living and working in London last year, she acted in a Richard III production in a local theater.

Anoja Perinpanathan is a German-Tamil professional with five years of experience in international development cooperation. Currently, Anoja works at Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), a service provider in the field of international cooperation for sustainable development and international education. Previously, Anoja worked for the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (UN-ESCWA) in Lebanon and the National Commission of UNESCO for Uruguay. Anoja’s technical expertise lies in migration, employment promotion, and social cohesion in fragile contexts, complemented by experience in management and strategy consulting, organizational development, and change management. Anoja completed her studies at University College Maastricht (UCM) in Liberal Arts and Sciences in the Netherlands, during which she spent a semester abroad at the Universidad San Francisco de Quito in Ecuador.

Azadê Peşmen (they/them) is the co-founder of Qzeng Productions and an award-winning host and podcast producer. They were live on air in 2010 at the Argentinian community radio “Radio Gráfica” on the rap program Rimas Rebeldes and have not left the mic since. Azadê has been trained at the public radio broadcaster Deutschlandfunk, reporting on security politics and covering investigative stories from Brazil, Turkey, and Iraq. They host podcasts, with narratives like “Deso- der Rapper der zum IS ging” (Deso- the rapper who joined ISIS) and daily shows like “Was jetzt?” (What now?). They also facilitate workshops and moderate events for companies and cultural institutions. Furthermore, they love to pass on knowledge to upcoming podcasters, like they did for Spotify’s Sound Up cohort of 2022.

Dr. Yen Dieu Pham has been a sustainability manager in the real estate department at Union Investment since 2023. She graduated with a master’s degree in architecture in 2017 and then embarked on a multifaceted journey. She worked as an architect and UX designer while also completing a PhD in computer science. Her research focused on sustainable software design. Yen Dieu is the daughter of a single mother who came to Germany as a former Vietnamese guest worker. She now lives with her family in Hamburg.

New Bridge to the U.S. is supported by the Joachim Herz Foundation and the Halle Foundation.

Der Beitrag New Bridge to the U.S.: Class of 2024 erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..

With generous support fom the German Federal Foreign Office, Atlantik-Brücke was able to fund the participation of eight New Bridge alumni – six from the United States and two from Germany – in this year’s German-American Conference in Washington, D.C., on April 15 and 16. Organized by Atlantik-Brücke and the American Council on Germany, the conference focused on “The New Realities for Democracy and Transatlantic Relations in an Election Year Unlike Any Other.” This report reflects the unique experience of our New Bridge alumni.

In the historic corridors of the 2024 German-American Conference, a gathering defined by its focus on democracy’s present challenges and future sustainability, the conference entailed a series of pivotal discussions that spanned the breadth of the transatlantic geopolitical spectrum. Addressing the seismic shifts in political landscapes both in the United States and Europe, the conference sought to unravel the intricate tapestry of political, economic, and security challenges that define the contemporary global order. With a clear-eyed view towards the upcoming pivotal elections and their far-reaching implications, the sessions were designed to foster a deeper understanding and strategize responses that would strengthen the transatlantic alliance in times of profound change and uncertainty.

Global Elections and Where the Transatlantic World Fits in

The 2024 German-American Conference opened with a resounding call to action, setting the stage for discussions on the pressing challenges facing democracy in the transatlantic world. Participants focused on the significance of the “biggest election year in history,” recognizing the urgency of safeguarding democratic values amidst global political turmoil.

A Fireside Chat featuring Senator Christopher Murphy and Sigmar Gabriel, Chairman of Atlantik-Brücke, kicked off the conference. Their dialogue delved into the fundamental principles underpinning the transatlantic partnership and the vital role played by both nations in promoting democracy globally.

“Trust in democratic institutions is so essential and fundamental. I’m confident that the commitment to freedom and democracy is still deeply entrenched in our societies on both sides of the Atlantic; much more entrenched than the divisions that we have to come to believe are insurmountable. Polls in both the U.S. and Europe should clearly, with the overwhelming majorities, agree that the right to vote lies at the core of the country’s identity. It lies at the core of the transatlantic partnership.” Sigmar Gabriel, Chairman, Atlantik-Brücke

Subsequently, Matt Cunningham, Executive Vice President of Edelman Data & Intelligence, provided an insightful session on the state of trust within the transatlantic relationship, presenting survey results that depicted a concerning decline in trust among Germans about the partnership’s value. This session underscored the urgency of addressing key challenges and rebuilding confidence.

The role of the media in shaping global elections and perceptions of the transatlantic world was explored through a panel discussion with three media leaders: Allison Meakem, Associate Editor at Foreign Policy, Ines Pohl, Washington DC Bureau Chief at Deutsche Welle, and Dr. Majid Sattar, Washington Correspondent for the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung. Their perspectives highlighted how the media landscape influences public discourse and political narratives, stressing the interconnectedness of information dissemination and democratic processes.

“What is the biggest motivator when voting during this American election cycle: hate, fear, or sanity?” Ines Pohl, Washington DC Bureau Chief at Deutsche Welle

As the day concluded, it became clear that the stakes are high in the upcoming elections across Europe and the United States, with complex drivers of political and social divisions demanding urgent attention. Participants left with a renewed commitment to confront these challenges by fostering dialogue and collaboration.

Elections in the U.S. and in Europe

The morning of Day Two at the 2024 German-American Conference provided a profound examination of the forthcoming elections in the U.S. and Europe, underscoring their significant international repercussions. The discussions were sparked by Ambassador John Emerson, who set the stage by articulating the changes in global dynamics post-Trump presidency, especially how these changes impact strategies around major conflicts such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This year’s election in the U.S., potentially seeing the return of Trump, could pivot the U.S. back towards isolationism, which might lessen pressure on adversaries like Russia and reshape U.S. commitments to international alliances.

The session titled “Political Polarization: What’s at Stake When the U.S. Votes?” delved deeper into the ramifications of the U.S. presidential election, with panelists – Julia Ioffe, Founding Partner and Washington Correspondent of Puck Media, Matt Gorman, Vice President of Targeted Victory, and Jamieson Greer, Partner at Kind & Spalding – arguing that, while American voters often focus on domestic issues such as the economy, immigration, and cultural values, their choices have far-reaching consequences on international relations. These include NATO’s future, the architecture of global trade, and the general stability of international diplomacy. Discussions highlighted the nuanced ways in which internal U.S. policies on tariffs and trade agreements, particularly with countries like France, are scrutinized abroad and can lead to shifts in global economic policies.

Subsequently, the focus shifted to Europe in “What to Watch When Europe Votes?” which explored the likely electoral gains of right-wing populism in European Parliament elections. Dr. Phyllis Berry, National Intelligence Officer for Europe at the National Intelligence Council, Christian Gaebel, Head of Agricultural and Support Policy at the Deutscher Bauernverband, Dr. Andrew Moravcsik, Professor of Politics and International Affairs at Princeton, and Julian Mueller-Kaler, Chief of Staff and Director of the Strategic Foresight Hub at the Stimson Center highlighted the growing disillusionment with traditional centrist politics, exacerbated by migration, economic instability, and cultural conflicts. This session examined how a shift to the right might affect Europe’s approach to international policy, including its agricultural policies and stance on geopolitical conflicts such as the Ukraine crisis. The insights offered a comprehensive look at how voter sentiment, driven by internal social and economic factors, is set to reshape Europe’s influence on the world stage.

“I wonder whether the differentiation between left and right is still an adequate term of what we are trying to describe. The Economist after the election of Donald Trump coined a new term of “drawbridge up” or “drawbridge down,” of those in favor of globalization and those against it, those thar have seen the benefits of a more integrated economy on a global scale and those that have not.” Julian Mueller-Kaler, Chief of Staff and Director Strategic Foresight Hub, Stimson Center

 Transatlantic Stability and Security

The second half of Day Two shifted the conference’s focus towards broader economic and security challenges impacting the transatlantic relationship. The panel on global economic futures – comprising of Dr. Andreas Dombret, Global Senior Advisor at Oliver Wyman, Claudia Donzelmann, Global Head of Regulatory and Public Affairs of Allianz SE, Dr. Christof Ehrhart, Executive Vice President of Corporate Communications and Governmental Affairs at Robert Bosch GmbH, Dr. John Lipsky, Senior Fellows at the Foreign Policy Institute at Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies, and Dr. Inu Manak, Fellows for Trade Policy at the Council on Foreign Relations – tackled the pressing issue of how recent pivotal events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing Russian aggression in Ukraine, have reshaped the distribution of economic power and resources globally. The dialogue was framed around the concept that economic growth needs to be sustainable and equitable to prevent societal conflicts over shrinking resources. Panelists debated the effectiveness of current global economic structures like the G20, criticizing its lack of legitimacy and adequacy in addressing contemporary challenges. There was a consensus on the need for a new, more inclusive decision-making body that could better represent the interests of a multipolar world.

“With one third of global GDP, the transatlantic relationship is incredibly essential for the global economy and for economic stability for the entire world; what we decide to work on together and what we decide not to work on together also effects the entire world.” Dr. Inu Manak, Fellow for Trade Policy, Council on Foreign Relations

The discussion then turned to the security landscape, particularly the prolonged conflict in Gaza and its implications for regional stability and included experts Bradley Bowman, Senior Director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, Dr. Charles Kupchan, Senior Fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, and Dr. Norbert Röttgen, Member of the German Bundestag. Some expressed deep concern over the humanitarian crisis and the cycle of retaliation between Israel and Hamas. The American perspective cautioned against repeating the mistakes of past U.S. foreign policy decisions post-9/11, advocating for a balanced approach that emphasizes humanitarian aid alongside robust security measures to ensure Israel’s security and address the root causes of terrorism.

The last session – with Deborah Düring, Member of the German Bundestag, Dr. Evelyn Farkas, Executive Director of the McCain Institute, and Ambassador Jovita Neliupšienė, EU Ambassador to the U.S. – focused on Eastern Europe’s warnings about Russian intentions, which had long been overlooked but have now proven prescient with the ongoing war in Ukraine. This discussion underscored the strategic necessity of supporting Ukraine not only militarily but also through a reaffirmation of Western values and commitment to democratic governance and regional security. Panelists highlighted the critical role of the West in shaping the outcome of this conflict and the broader implications for global security architectures.

A New Bridge Perspective on the Conference

As the conference drew to a close, the New Bridge perspective offered a refreshing and innovative approach to the issues discussed over the two days, highlighting the critical need for engagement across generations and sectors to address shared challenges and strengthen transatlantic relations. The sessions had collectively underscored the urgency and complexity of addressing the multifaceted challenges that lie at the heart of the transatlantic relationship. From the electoral nuances that could redefine international alignments to the economic and security strategies critical for stability, the discussions highlighted the need for a proactive and nuanced approach to diplomacy and international cooperation and highlighted the interconnected nature of these challenges and the importance of a multisectoral approach to addressing them. New Bridge alumni brought unique insights from their varied backgrounds, emphasizing solutions that engage non-traditional stakeholders and utilize digital platforms to reach younger demographics, who are increasingly disillusioned with traditional politics.

The insights garnered from these sessions are set to inform policies and strategies that will not only navigate but also shape the future of global interactions. As New Bridge alumni left the conference halls, they carried with them a renewed sense of purpose and a clearer vision of the roles they must play in a rapidly evolving world stage, reflecting a shared commitment to a robust and enduring transatlantic alliance.

Der Beitrag The German-American Conference in Washington, D.C.: An In-Depth Analysis from a New Bridge Perspective erschien zuerst auf Atlantik-Brücke e.V..