Berlin Watch

Waking up one fine October morning (late and well-prepared by equal measure) to news that our great city Berlin is now officially bankrupt, after the Supreme Court's final ruling that it was in effect us and no-one else have to pay for our staggering debts, we as citizens of Germany's capital knew we were in for some changes. And probably not the most pleasant ones, too. This seemed to turn into confirmed fact soon enough, as Klaus Wowereit (Governing Mayor) singlehandedly abolished the post of “Senator for Science, Research and Culture” and announced that forthwith he would simply add these functions to his own office responsibilities, leaving anyone concerned to wonder as to what would become of our city's cultural assets.

When he addressed the “Abgeordnetenhaus von Berlin” (House of Representatives) earlier this week in his new term's general speech outlining government policies, there were however some reassuring remarks prominently made, which could, if followed through in actual fact, i.e. decision making, allow for some healthy development of our city's most valuable resources. You'll find the complete text as it stands on official record in German, Teil 1 hier, Teil 2 hier – but I want to give you the integral passages thereof, those of special interest to me in this context, in as good a translation as I can provide:

"The so-called “creative industries“ such as music, film and media, including fashion, design and literature as well as photography, have developed into a vital factor within Berlin’s economy. Berlin in all its contrariness, its history, its constant changes and the feeling of “breaking new ground” almost tangible in many places, offers lots of inspiration. An ever increasing number of creative minds and promising talents come to Berlin in order to seek out new possibilities, to get involved. The cultural industry, made up by more than 80% of enterprises with a staff of less than three, is one of the most dynamic yet at the same time one of the most volatile sectors. Any foresighted policy has to advertently keep track of these developments to effectively utilize new possibilities. In setting up the “media board”, we have built an outstanding means to furthering and connecting the media industry. Because this senate is fully aware of the “creative industries” key position, we will further develop interconnectedness and the establishing of value-added chains fur additional areas of the creative economy, too.

[...] Internationalism and Cosmopolitanism are central characteristics, adding value to our city. Berlin is a city of immigration. We want to rise to the opportunities that Berlin's internationality provides.”

So, let's see what comes of all this political poetry and ensure that it will not turn out to be nothing more than just your usual adorning rhetoric, by keeping watch. I think Berlin is worth our efforts!

(pic©dpa)