Lukas Hermsmeier

Lukas Hermsmeier is an independent journalist from Berlin based in New York. He reports for German publications such as Zeit Online, Der Tagesspiegel, and Die Tageszeitung.

head shot of Elke Kahr

When There’s a Communist Running City Hall When There’s a Communist Running City Hall

Elke Kahr, the mayor of Austria’s second-largest city, explains how her party built up trust over decades of organizing.

Feb 28, 2023 / Q&A / Lukas Hermsmeier

Germany’s Big Green Mood Lacks Radicalism

Germany’s Big Green Mood Lacks Radicalism Germany’s Big Green Mood Lacks Radicalism

The ascendant Green Party’s moderate approach might placate some voters, but it won’t save a burning planet.

Oct 25, 2019 / Lukas Hermsmeier

Berlin Gentrification

Berlin’s Radical Housing Activists Aren’t Afraid of Expropriations Berlin’s Radical Housing Activists Aren’t Afraid of Expropriations

Germany’s hippest city is debating whether to seize 200,000 homes from landlords and turn them into social housing.

Mar 27, 2019 / Lukas Hermsmeier

Merkel’s Refugee Policy Is Political Calculus, Not Humanitarian Generosity

Merkel’s Refugee Policy Is Political Calculus, Not Humanitarian Generosity Merkel’s Refugee Policy Is Political Calculus, Not Humanitarian Generosity

It’s high time to wipe the rose tint from the media’s lens on Germany as the shining bastion of Willkommenskultur.

Nov 19, 2015 / Natasha Lennard and Lukas Hermsmeier

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