Star of German elite reveals symptoms of 'national disease.' (banker and academic Margarita Mathiopoulos)

Article Abstract:

There is strong opposition to change among the aging elite which controls Germany, according to banker and academic Margarita Mathiopoulos. This ruling elite has influence in all areas of German life. Its insistence on preserving traditional positions has led to Germany become economically and socially stagnant. Mathiopoulos is very critical of Germany's political culture and its lack of openness to the outside world. She greatly admires US-style capitalism, and believes that the German model is no longer viable.

Social aspects, Germany, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Political culture, Mathiopoulos, Margarita

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The cigarette gangs that played with fire

Article Abstract:

Cigarette smuggling is now very extensive in western Europe, with around 10 billion cigarettes believed to have been brought illegally into Berlin, Germany, for example, in 1995. Violent clashes between rival gangs of cigarette smugglers have become increasingly common, and some deaths have occurred. Most of the 10,000 Vietnamese living in Berlin are believed to be involved in cigarette smuggling, and the problem is now spreading to other cities.

International trade, Smuggling, Cigarettes

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The German Blair emerges

Article Abstract:

The resignation of Finance Minister Oskar Lafontaine will give German Chancellor Gerhard Schroder the opportunity to mould the cabinet and the Social Democrat party to his own views. He will transform the party into a vehicle for the 'New Centre,' drawing on the experience of the UK Labour party and of Prime Minister Tony Blair. He will confront party members with economic reality, but will continue to show himself to be extremely pragmatic.

Column, Social Democratic Party of Germany

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