The Greens are becoming alienated from the population, says Thomas Sigmund.
(Photo: IMAGO/photothek)
People don’t like it when parties dictate how they should live their lives or make them feel like they’re being treated to unnecessary prohibitions. The answer of the citizens can not only be read in the falling survey values.
The eco-party was also punished in the recent elections in Berlin, Frankfurt and Mainz. Apparently, the demands for a quick end to oil and gas heating or the energetic renovation of houses and apartments do not fit with the broad reality of people’s lives. The fact that the eco-party only appeals to its loyal fan base is one thing. What is more serious, however, is that the broad public support for the implementation of the climate goals could crumble.
When the Greens federal parliamentary group meets for three days, they should ask themselves one thing above all: How can realistic regulations be introduced that do not overwhelm anyone and at the same time not postpone the future. Sometimes one feels reminded of Bert Brecht in this alienation and changes his quote as follows. “The people have lost the trust of the Greens. Wouldn’t it be easier if the Greens dissolved the people and elected another?”
We’re not even talking about the climate stickers. The Greens’ proposals for a ban on the construction of single-family homes, the expropriation of homeowners, the phase-out of coal in the east as early as 2030 or the furnishing of Friedrichstrasse all seem increasingly radical.
It is true that we are all running out of time when it comes to climate protection. But if the citizens do not know how they can practically and financially manage the installation of heat pumps, then understanding the necessities is of little help, as Bert Brecht already knew.
More: Compulsory installation of heat pumps is not enough