A Young Voter’s Debut: Gesa Schönwolff’s Perspective on Germany’s Election
Gesa Schönwolff, an 18-year-old from Berlin, made her debut as a voter in Germany’s recent election, marking a pivotal moment in her transition from observer to active participant in the country’s democracy. On a crisp Sunday morning, she volunteered at a polling station, guiding voters into the building and verifying their identities. Taking a brief pause from her duties, she cast her ballot for the first time, an act she described as both empowering and necessary. Schönwolff’s enthusiasm for voting was driven by her deep concern over the escalating challenges facing her generation, including climate change, Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, the rise of political extremism, and the shifting geopolitical dynamics that seem to align certain political leaders with authoritarian figures. “I feel that today more is at stake than ever before,” she shared, her voice tinged with urgency. Schönwolff believes that the election presents an opportunity to counteract the growing influence of authoritarian voices worldwide and hopes that the new government will take a strong stance on these issues.
The Motivations Behind Her Vote:Climate Change and International Solidarity
Schönwolff’s decision to support the Greens party was rooted in their commitment to climate-friendly policies and their advocacy for robust Western support for Ukraine. “The Greens best represent my interests, especially climate protection,” she explained, emphasizing her belief that the party aligns with her values and priorities. While she acknowledges the importance of addressing other issues, she feels that climate protection is being neglected by other political factions. “I have the feeling that the other parties are not paying enough attention at the moment, and the issue is being ignored,” she remarked, highlighting her frustration with the lack of focus on environmental concerns. Her support for the Greens also reflects her desire for Germany to play a more active role in supporting Ukraine, a stance that resonates with many young voters who are acutely aware of the global implications of the conflict.
The Rise of the Far-Right AfD Party and Its Impact on German Politics
The election also highlighted the growing influence of the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has gained momentum in recent years, particularly among voters concerned about immigration and security. Schönwolff acknowledges the fears surrounding migration but believes that the issue has overshadowed other critical concerns, such as climate change, education, and social justice. “Among my friends, many worry that the topic of migration is getting so big that other topics which are just as important to us are taking a backseat,” she noted. Schönwolff’s views reflect a broader sentiment among young voters who feel that the political discourse is increasingly dominated by polarizing issues, often at the expense of pressing challenges that require immediate attention. While she understands the concerns of those who support the AfD, she hopes that the election will bring about a government that can address these issues in a balanced and inclusive manner.
The Complicating Factor of Election Timing
Schönwolff’s voting experience was also shaped by the unexpected timing of the election, which was called months earlier than scheduled after the collapse of outgoing Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s three-party coalition late last year. This sudden change in the political landscape caught many off guard, including some of Schönwolff’s friends who were still shy of the voting age of 18. They, too, had been eager to have a say in the major issues of the day and had been looking forward to casting their ballots later in the year. The early election meant that Schönwolff was among the lucky ones who were able to participate, and she was determined to make her voice heard. “I am very happy that I was able to vote today, and of course, I hope that my vote can counteract the shift to the right,” she said with a sense of pride and purpose.
Volunteering at the Polls: A Positive and Empowering Experience
In addition to casting her ballot, Schönwolff also volunteered at the polling station, where she helped guide voters and check their IDs. Despite her youth, she was pleasantly surprised by how seriously other volunteers took her contributions. “I thought maybe people wouldn’t take me seriously because of my age, but everyone was really supportive and treated me like an equal,” she reflected. Her experience volunteering reinforced her belief in the importance of civic engagement and the value of participating in the democratic process, even in small but meaningful ways. After casting her vote, Schönwolff returned to the polling station to help count the votes, a task she approached with enthusiasm and a sense of responsibility. Her involvement in the election process was not just about exercising her right to vote but also about contributing to the integrity and success of the democratic system as a whole.
The Power of Youth in Shaping Germany’s Future
Gesa Schönwolff’s story is a testament to the power of youth in shaping the future of Germany and the world. At a time when authoritarian voices are gaining traction globally, her commitment to democracy, climate action, and international solidarity offers a beacon of hope. Schönwolff’s decision to support the Greens reflects her desire for a government that prioritizes the environment, stands up for Ukraine, and counters the influence of far-right ideologies. While she is aware of the challenges ahead, she remains optimistic about the potential for change. “That feels good,” she said with a smile, reflecting on the impact of her vote. Schönwolff’s experience serves as a reminder that even in uncertain times, the voices and actions of young people can make a difference. As she and her peers continue to engage with the political process, they carry the hope of a brighter, more just, and sustainable future for generations to come.
