Angela Merkel warns against populism and anti-Semitism

Speaking to CNN in the aftermath of the EU elections, the 'leader of the free world' addressed intolerance abroad, and racism at home

BERLIN, GERMANY - MAY 14 : German Chancellor Angela Merkel delivers a speech during an event marking the 70th anniversary of the German Basic Law (Grundgesetz) in Berlin, Germany on May 14, 2
(Image credit: 2019 Anadolu Agency)

Angela Merkel has acknowledged the rise of the “dark forces” of nationalism, populism, and anti-Semitism in the wake of the European elections, amid an escalation of anti-Semitic attacks in Germany.

“Germany can’t and will not uncouple itself from developments we see all over the world,” she said, speaking to Christiane Amanpour on CNN, in an interview that was released on Tuesday. “We see this in Germany as well, but in Germany, obviously, we see it in a certain context - the context of our past”.

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William Gritten

William Gritten is a London-born, New York-based strategist and writer focusing on politics and international affairs.