Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Niedriglohndebatte: Neues Programm für Langzeitarbeitslose
Das Programm "Jobperspektive" soll 100.000 Langzeitarbeitslose mit Kombilöhnen in reguläre Jobs bringen. Über Mindestlöhne haben die Arbeitsmarktexperten der Koalition angeblich noch gar nicht gesprochen, doch die Fronten bröckeln: Inzwischen sammeln auch CDU-Politiker Unterschriften.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Monday, March 26, 2007
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Staatsdefizit soll bis 2010 auf null sinken
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Staatsdefizit soll bis 2010 auf null sinken
Die Bundesregierung strebt für das Jahr 2010 einen ausgeglichenen Staatshaushalt an. Finanzminister Peer Steinbrück (SPD) und Bundeskanzlerin Angela Merkel (CDU) seien sich einig, das Defizit bis dahin auf null zu drücken, hieß es am Sonntag in Regierungskreisen in Berlin.
Die Bundesregierung strebt für das Jahr 2010 einen ausgeglichenen Staatshaushalt an. Finanzminister Peer Steinbrück (SPD) und Bundeskanzlerin Angela Merkel (CDU) seien sich einig, das Defizit bis dahin auf null zu drücken, hieß es am Sonntag in Regierungskreisen in Berlin.
FT.com / World / Europe - Merkel lays out tight Europe treaty timetable
FT.com / World / Europe - Merkel lays out tight Europe treaty timetable
Angela Merkel, German chancellor, yesterday used the European Union's 50th anniversary celebrations to warn its leaders to sortout their constitutional wrangling by Christmas, or risk making a "historic error".
Angela Merkel, German chancellor, yesterday used the European Union's 50th anniversary celebrations to warn its leaders to sortout their constitutional wrangling by Christmas, or risk making a "historic error".
Wolf Biermann erhält Ehrenbürgerwürde Der Sänger von Berlin - Kultur - sueddeutsche.de
Wolf Biermann erhält Ehrenbürgerwürde Der Sänger von Berlin - Kultur - sueddeutsche.de
Die politischen Streitigkeiten um die Auszeichnung des im Jahr 1976 aus der DDR ausgebürgerten Liedermachers haben ein Ende: Wolf Biermann wird der 115. Ehrenbürger Berlins.
Die politischen Streitigkeiten um die Auszeichnung des im Jahr 1976 aus der DDR ausgebürgerten Liedermachers haben ein Ende: Wolf Biermann wird der 115. Ehrenbürger Berlins.
Schule - sueddeutsche.de
Schule - sueddeutsche.de
Deutschland hat einen neuen Lehrer-Wettbewerb: Schüler dürfen ihren Lieblingspädagogen vorschlagen.
Deutschland hat einen neuen Lehrer-Wettbewerb: Schüler dürfen ihren Lieblingspädagogen vorschlagen.
US-Rangliste SAP-Chef rettet deutsche Ehre an der Wall Street - Wirtschaft - sueddeutsche.de
US-Rangliste SAP-Chef rettet deutsche Ehre an der Wall Street - Wirtschaft - sueddeutsche.de
In der jährlich erscheinenden Rangliste des US-Börsenbriefs "Barron's" hat es von den deutschen Managern nur SAP-Chef Kagermann unter die Konzernchefs mit...
In der jährlich erscheinenden Rangliste des US-Börsenbriefs "Barron's" hat es von den deutschen Managern nur SAP-Chef Kagermann unter die Konzernchefs mit...
F.A.Z.-Kommentare - Politik - FAZ.NET - Kommentar: Merkels europäischer Fahrplan - Freiheit statt Zentralisierung
F.A.Z.-Kommentare - Politik - FAZ.NET - Kommentar: Merkels europäischer Fahrplan - Freiheit statt Zentralisierung
26. März 2007
Am Tag der Erinnerung an die Anfänge nach dem Zivilisationsbruch in Europa hat Angela Merkel, deutsche Kanzlerin und Präsidentin des Europäischen Rates, den Blick nach vorne gerichtet: Sie will die Europäische Union bis zur Wahl des Europäischen Parlaments im Jahr 2009 auf eine „erneuerte gemeinsame Grundlage“ stellen.
26. März 2007
Am Tag der Erinnerung an die Anfänge nach dem Zivilisationsbruch in Europa hat Angela Merkel, deutsche Kanzlerin und Präsidentin des Europäischen Rates, den Blick nach vorne gerichtet: Sie will die Europäische Union bis zur Wahl des Europäischen Parlaments im Jahr 2009 auf eine „erneuerte gemeinsame Grundlage“ stellen.
Bücher - Feuilleton - FAZ.NET - Ehrenbürger Berlins: Biermanns dichterische Freiheit
Bücher - Feuilleton - FAZ.NET - Ehrenbürger Berlins: Biermanns dichterische Freiheit
26. März 2007 Von heute an und sein Leben lang darf Wolf Biermann umsonst mit der U-Bahn, den Metro-Bussen und den rumpelnden Straßenbahnen durch Berlin fahren. Denn heute wird der Dichtersänger und Dissident Ehrenbürger dieser Stadt. Die Sache mit den Bussen wissen wir von Heinz Berggruen, dem vor Biermann zuletzt geehrten hervorragenden Bürger.
So diskret ironisch und unaufgeregt wie damals, im Juli 2004, wird es dieses Mal nicht zugehen. Der Streit um die Ehrenbürgerschaft Biermanns hatte die Stadt, zum ersten Mal seit einer langen Zeit der politischen Agonie, in zwei Lager geteilt. Keinesfalls gleich starke Lager, wie der Ausgang der Geschichte uns vorgeführt hat. Und keinesfalls, wie viele befürchteten, zum Schaden Biermanns. Denn fast immer führen derart öffentliche Debatten um Preisträger und Ehrentitel zu einer Beschädigung des zu Ehrenden. Hier aber trat das Gegenteil ein.
Wofür er steht
Mit Wolf Biermann wird nicht nur ein großer Künstler geehrt, sondern alles, wofür er steht: Zivilcourage in dunkler Zeit; die Freiheitsgeschichte Berlins, die er in seinen Liedern besingt; die Erinnerung an die Mauerjahre, die seine Gegner (die auch gegen die Ehrung waren) gern vergessen machen würden, und die Bürgerbewegung des Ostens, deren unumstrittener Protagonist er immer noch ist.
Das Ja oder Nein zum streitbaren Biermann hatte dem Bürgermeister von Berlin und seinem Zirkel eine erste kapitale Krise beschert, die außer Kontrolle geriet, als sich jeder, der politischen Verstand besaß, gegen Wowereit stellte, darunter auch viel Prominenz, Minister, Bundestagsabgeordnete, ehemalige Präsidenten und zu guter Letzt die Mehrheit der eigenen Fraktion im Berliner Abgeordnetenhaus. Für oder gegen Biermann sein hieß wieder einmal, sich politisch zu bekennen. Dass die Gegner als Minderheit übrigblieben, zumal im Verein mit den Unbelehrbaren aus dem Reservat der PDS, gehörte zum Besten, was der Stadt in letzter Zeit geschehen ist. Hier wurde endlich einmal eine Stimmung offensichtlich, die normalerweise immer weggebügelt wird: Der Unmut darüber, dass Berlin politisch im Großen und Ganzen und kulturpolitisch im Besonderen wie der letzte Krähwinkel regiert wird.
Vernichtendes Urteil
Ehrenbürger wird man nicht per Volksentscheid, sondern auf Beschluss des Senates. Nicht selten hatte man sich in der Vergangenheit auf einen Ehrenbürger nach parteipolitischem Proporz geeinigt. Natürlich nicht bei Heinz Berggruen, auch nicht bei Marlene Dietrich, der man diese Ehre erst postum erwies, weil sie nach unguten Erfahrungen beschlossen hatte, zu Lebzeiten nicht wieder in diese Stadt zu kommen.
Klaus Wowereit als Regierender Bürgermeister wird sich heute, wenn er seine Ruhmesrede auf Biermann hält, mächtig anstrengen müssen. Es ist bekannt, dass er diese Ehrung verhindern wollte. Dass aber Wolf Biermann nun, kurz vor dem Fest, das sein Triumph sein soll, noch einmal kräftig zulangen muss, als stünden am nächsten Sonntag Wahlen an, irritiert nicht nur die Gescholtenen. Auf der Buchmesse in Leipzig wiederholte er sein vernichtendes Urteil zum rotroten Senat und prophezeite ihm den baldigen Untergang: „Ich finde es verbrecherisch, dass die SPD mit der PDS ins Bett geht.“ Das hat er schon besser gedichtet.
Text: F.A.Z., 26.03.2007, Nr. 72 / Seite 40
26. März 2007 Von heute an und sein Leben lang darf Wolf Biermann umsonst mit der U-Bahn, den Metro-Bussen und den rumpelnden Straßenbahnen durch Berlin fahren. Denn heute wird der Dichtersänger und Dissident Ehrenbürger dieser Stadt. Die Sache mit den Bussen wissen wir von Heinz Berggruen, dem vor Biermann zuletzt geehrten hervorragenden Bürger.
So diskret ironisch und unaufgeregt wie damals, im Juli 2004, wird es dieses Mal nicht zugehen. Der Streit um die Ehrenbürgerschaft Biermanns hatte die Stadt, zum ersten Mal seit einer langen Zeit der politischen Agonie, in zwei Lager geteilt. Keinesfalls gleich starke Lager, wie der Ausgang der Geschichte uns vorgeführt hat. Und keinesfalls, wie viele befürchteten, zum Schaden Biermanns. Denn fast immer führen derart öffentliche Debatten um Preisträger und Ehrentitel zu einer Beschädigung des zu Ehrenden. Hier aber trat das Gegenteil ein.
Wofür er steht
Mit Wolf Biermann wird nicht nur ein großer Künstler geehrt, sondern alles, wofür er steht: Zivilcourage in dunkler Zeit; die Freiheitsgeschichte Berlins, die er in seinen Liedern besingt; die Erinnerung an die Mauerjahre, die seine Gegner (die auch gegen die Ehrung waren) gern vergessen machen würden, und die Bürgerbewegung des Ostens, deren unumstrittener Protagonist er immer noch ist.
Das Ja oder Nein zum streitbaren Biermann hatte dem Bürgermeister von Berlin und seinem Zirkel eine erste kapitale Krise beschert, die außer Kontrolle geriet, als sich jeder, der politischen Verstand besaß, gegen Wowereit stellte, darunter auch viel Prominenz, Minister, Bundestagsabgeordnete, ehemalige Präsidenten und zu guter Letzt die Mehrheit der eigenen Fraktion im Berliner Abgeordnetenhaus. Für oder gegen Biermann sein hieß wieder einmal, sich politisch zu bekennen. Dass die Gegner als Minderheit übrigblieben, zumal im Verein mit den Unbelehrbaren aus dem Reservat der PDS, gehörte zum Besten, was der Stadt in letzter Zeit geschehen ist. Hier wurde endlich einmal eine Stimmung offensichtlich, die normalerweise immer weggebügelt wird: Der Unmut darüber, dass Berlin politisch im Großen und Ganzen und kulturpolitisch im Besonderen wie der letzte Krähwinkel regiert wird.
Vernichtendes Urteil
Ehrenbürger wird man nicht per Volksentscheid, sondern auf Beschluss des Senates. Nicht selten hatte man sich in der Vergangenheit auf einen Ehrenbürger nach parteipolitischem Proporz geeinigt. Natürlich nicht bei Heinz Berggruen, auch nicht bei Marlene Dietrich, der man diese Ehre erst postum erwies, weil sie nach unguten Erfahrungen beschlossen hatte, zu Lebzeiten nicht wieder in diese Stadt zu kommen.
Klaus Wowereit als Regierender Bürgermeister wird sich heute, wenn er seine Ruhmesrede auf Biermann hält, mächtig anstrengen müssen. Es ist bekannt, dass er diese Ehrung verhindern wollte. Dass aber Wolf Biermann nun, kurz vor dem Fest, das sein Triumph sein soll, noch einmal kräftig zulangen muss, als stünden am nächsten Sonntag Wahlen an, irritiert nicht nur die Gescholtenen. Auf der Buchmesse in Leipzig wiederholte er sein vernichtendes Urteil zum rotroten Senat und prophezeite ihm den baldigen Untergang: „Ich finde es verbrecherisch, dass die SPD mit der PDS ins Bett geht.“ Das hat er schon besser gedichtet.
Text: F.A.Z., 26.03.2007, Nr. 72 / Seite 40
Sunday, March 25, 2007
A mid-life milestone for Europe - International Herald Tribune
A mid-life milestone for Europe - International Herald Tribune
BERLIN: Fifty years after it was founded in Rome as a trading bloc for six countries, the European Union marked a mid-life milestone here on Sunday with all-night parties, a laid-back street festival, and a fervent plea for renewal by the German chancellor, Angela Merkel.
BERLIN: Fifty years after it was founded in Rome as a trading bloc for six countries, the European Union marked a mid-life milestone here on Sunday with all-night parties, a laid-back street festival, and a fervent plea for renewal by the German chancellor, Angela Merkel.
Germany in limelight as EU turns 50 - International Herald Tribune
Germany in limelight as EU turns 50 - International Herald Tribune
BERLIN: Chancellor Angela Merkel took center stage of European politics Sunday, putting Germany back in the lead of European integration on a day that two of the bloc's most controversial leaders probably attended their last EU summit meeting.
BERLIN: Chancellor Angela Merkel took center stage of European politics Sunday, putting Germany back in the lead of European integration on a day that two of the bloc's most controversial leaders probably attended their last EU summit meeting.
To strengthen control, Porsche will make a bid for Volkswagen - International Herald Tribune
To strengthen control, Porsche will make a bid for Volkswagen - International Herald Tribune
BERLIN: The German sports-car maker Porsche has said it will make a takeover bid for Volkswagen, a symbolically audacious but largely legal step in its growing control over Volkswagen, Europe's largest carmaker and the inventor of the utilitarian Beetle.
BERLIN: The German sports-car maker Porsche has said it will make a takeover bid for Volkswagen, a symbolically audacious but largely legal step in its growing control over Volkswagen, Europe's largest carmaker and the inventor of the utilitarian Beetle.
On Advertising: Germany raises its creativity profile - International Herald Tribune
On Advertising: Germany raises its creativity profile - International Herald Tribune
LONDON: Germany is an export powerhouse, producing many of the world's most sought-after cars. But in advertising, it sometimes has resembled a listless Trabant, rather than a muscular Mercedes.
(...)
"Historically, Germany has been seen as a very correct and disciplined country, but not a creative one," Heilmann said. "But that is changing."
LONDON: Germany is an export powerhouse, producing many of the world's most sought-after cars. But in advertising, it sometimes has resembled a listless Trabant, rather than a muscular Mercedes.
(...)
"Historically, Germany has been seen as a very correct and disciplined country, but not a creative one," Heilmann said. "But that is changing."
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - "Man sagt nicht 'Auf Wiedersehen'"
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - "Man sagt nicht 'Auf Wiedersehen'"
Brigitte Mohnhaupt ist frei. Um den Medien zu entgehen, ist die frühere RAF-Terroristin mitten in der Nacht aus der Haft entlassen worden. Überhaupt will sie jetzt vor allem ihre Ruhe haben. Wohnen wird Mohnhaupt wohl ausgerechnet in der Gerichtsstadt Karlsruhe.
Brigitte Mohnhaupt ist frei. Um den Medien zu entgehen, ist die frühere RAF-Terroristin mitten in der Nacht aus der Haft entlassen worden. Überhaupt will sie jetzt vor allem ihre Ruhe haben. Wohnen wird Mohnhaupt wohl ausgerechnet in der Gerichtsstadt Karlsruhe.
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - Slowakei unterstützt Merkel bei EU-Verfassung
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - Slowakei unterstützt Merkel bei EU-Verfassung
Die slowakische Regierung unterstützt die deutsche EU-Ratspräsidentschaft bei ihrem Vorhaben, so bald wie möglich einen neuen Entwurf für die EU-Verfassung auf den Weg zu bringen.
Die slowakische Regierung unterstützt die deutsche EU-Ratspräsidentschaft bei ihrem Vorhaben, so bald wie möglich einen neuen Entwurf für die EU-Verfassung auf den Weg zu bringen.
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - Tschechien und Polen stören Gipfelharmonie
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - Tschechien und Polen stören Gipfelharmonie
Polen und Tschechien haben den Plan von Bundeskanzlerin Angela Merkel durchkreuzt, die EU im Einvernehmen auf einen ehrgeizigen Zeitplan für das Inkrafttreten eines neuen Verfassungsvertrags zu verpflichten. Der polnische Präsident Lech Kaczynski nannte die Absicht der EU-Ratspräsidentin "ein schönes Ziel", das jedoch "unerreichbar" scheine.
Polen und Tschechien haben den Plan von Bundeskanzlerin Angela Merkel durchkreuzt, die EU im Einvernehmen auf einen ehrgeizigen Zeitplan für das Inkrafttreten eines neuen Verfassungsvertrags zu verpflichten. Der polnische Präsident Lech Kaczynski nannte die Absicht der EU-Ratspräsidentin "ein schönes Ziel", das jedoch "unerreichbar" scheine.
Ex-RAF-Terroristin Mohnhaupt Nach 24 Jahren in Freiheit - Deutschland - sueddeutsche.de
Ex-RAF-Terroristin Mohnhaupt Nach 24 Jahren in Freiheit - Deutschland - sueddeutsche.de
Die einstige Terroristin Brigitte Mohnhaupt verlässt im Morgengrauen das Gefängnis in Aichach. Dann sind noch drei ehemalige RAF-Mitglieder in Haft.
Die einstige Terroristin Brigitte Mohnhaupt verlässt im Morgengrauen das Gefängnis in Aichach. Dann sind noch drei ehemalige RAF-Mitglieder in Haft.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
FT.com / Columnists / Wolfgang Munchau - What German history can teach Brown’s critics
FT.com / Columnists / Wolfgang Munchau - What German history can teach Brown’s critics
History, they say, is the study of events that do not repeat themselves. But there are nevertheless some uncanny parallels between the debate in the UK about Gordon Brown’s suitability as prime minister and a similar debate in West Germany in 1974. Then, large parts of the German establishment had serious doubts about the suitability for high office of Helmut Schmidt, who was finance minister at the time, with a reputation not dissimilar to that of the British chancellor of the exchequer today.
History, they say, is the study of events that do not repeat themselves. But there are nevertheless some uncanny parallels between the debate in the UK about Gordon Brown’s suitability as prime minister and a similar debate in West Germany in 1974. Then, large parts of the German establishment had serious doubts about the suitability for high office of Helmut Schmidt, who was finance minister at the time, with a reputation not dissimilar to that of the British chancellor of the exchequer today.
FT.com / Companies / Autos - Porsche triggers VW offer
FT.com / Companies / Autos - Porsche triggers VW offer
Porsche is set to become Europe’s largest car and truck manufacturer. The German carmaker on Monday confirmed it had exercised an option to take an extra 3.6 per cent stake in Volkswagen, taking its holding to 30.9 per cent as of Wednesday.
Porsche is set to become Europe’s largest car and truck manufacturer. The German carmaker on Monday confirmed it had exercised an option to take an extra 3.6 per cent stake in Volkswagen, taking its holding to 30.9 per cent as of Wednesday.
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Mohnhaupt hat schon einen Job
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Mohnhaupt hat schon einen Job
Nach mehr als 24 Jahren Haft steht die frühere RAF-Terroristin Brigitte Mohnhaupt unmittelbar vor ihrer Freilassung. Dann wird sie offenbar nach Karlsruhe ziehen und dort arbeiten.
Nach mehr als 24 Jahren Haft steht die frühere RAF-Terroristin Brigitte Mohnhaupt unmittelbar vor ihrer Freilassung. Dann wird sie offenbar nach Karlsruhe ziehen und dort arbeiten.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Europäische Verfassung: Staatschefs beschließen große EU-Reform bis 2009 - Politik - SPIEGEL ONLINE - Nachrichten
Europäische Verfassung: Staatschefs beschließen große EU-Reform bis 2009 - Politik - SPIEGEL ONLINE - Nachrichten
Kanzlerin Merkel hat die Zweifler überzeugt: Bis 2009 will die EU einen neuen Anlauf für eine Verfassung nehmen. Darauf einigten sich die Staats- und Regierungschefs vor dem Gipfeltreffen am Wochenende in Berlin.
Kanzlerin Merkel hat die Zweifler überzeugt: Bis 2009 will die EU einen neuen Anlauf für eine Verfassung nehmen. Darauf einigten sich die Staats- und Regierungschefs vor dem Gipfeltreffen am Wochenende in Berlin.
Bücher - Feuilleton - FAZ.NET - Martin Walser zum Achtzigsten: Der Schwimmer vom Bodensee
Bücher - Feuilleton - FAZ.NET - Martin Walser zum Achtzigsten: Der Schwimmer vom Bodensee
23. März 2007 Martin Walser wird achtzig. Wenn man ihn sieht und liest und hört, muss man sagen: Das Alter steht ihm, aber es passt nicht zu ihm. Es ficht ihn an. Seine Revolte gegen das Undwenn und das Alsob, gegen alles, was vor-gedacht und -gefühlt und -behauptet daherkommt, erscheint nach wie vor so charakteristisch wie seine Sprache, jener Walsersche Ton, den man überall sofort erkennt: schwingend, nachdenklich, um Wahrhaftigkeit ringend - und seit dem Debütroman „Ehen in Philippsburg“ vor fünfzig Jahren geprägt von Drastik, Pathos und mancher Pose. Aber immer von einer Stärke und Vitalität, die weniger Intellektualität denn Lebensnähe atmete.
23. März 2007 Martin Walser wird achtzig. Wenn man ihn sieht und liest und hört, muss man sagen: Das Alter steht ihm, aber es passt nicht zu ihm. Es ficht ihn an. Seine Revolte gegen das Undwenn und das Alsob, gegen alles, was vor-gedacht und -gefühlt und -behauptet daherkommt, erscheint nach wie vor so charakteristisch wie seine Sprache, jener Walsersche Ton, den man überall sofort erkennt: schwingend, nachdenklich, um Wahrhaftigkeit ringend - und seit dem Debütroman „Ehen in Philippsburg“ vor fünfzig Jahren geprägt von Drastik, Pathos und mancher Pose. Aber immer von einer Stärke und Vitalität, die weniger Intellektualität denn Lebensnähe atmete.
F.A.Z.-Kommentare - Politik - FAZ.NET - „Berliner Erklärung“: Ein bescheidener Kompromiss
F.A.Z.-Kommentare - Politik - FAZ.NET - „Berliner Erklärung“: Ein bescheidener Kompromiss
Die „Berliner Erklärung“ ist, wie so vieles in der Europäischen Union, das Ergebnis des Abgleichs unterschiedlicher Interessen und Präferenzen. Sie ist ein Kompromiss, für dessen Bescheidenheit sich die federführende Bundesregierung nicht entschuldigen muss. Auch nicht dafür, dass das Wort „Verfassung“ nicht vorkommt. Es ist in London und Prag, in Frankreich und den Niederlanden zu einem Reizwort geworden, das die gesamte Reformdebatte belastet hat.
Die „Berliner Erklärung“ ist, wie so vieles in der Europäischen Union, das Ergebnis des Abgleichs unterschiedlicher Interessen und Präferenzen. Sie ist ein Kompromiss, für dessen Bescheidenheit sich die federführende Bundesregierung nicht entschuldigen muss. Auch nicht dafür, dass das Wort „Verfassung“ nicht vorkommt. Es ist in London und Prag, in Frankreich und den Niederlanden zu einem Reizwort geworden, das die gesamte Reformdebatte belastet hat.
FTD.de - Finanzdienstleister - Nachrichten - Citigroup erwägt Angebot für ABN Amro
FTD.de - Finanzdienstleister - Nachrichten - Citigroup erwägt Angebot für ABN Amro
Citigroup könnte die Pläne der niederländischen Bank ABN Amro für eine Fusion mit dem britischen Rivalen Barclays durchkreuzen. Die US-Bank erwägt laut einem Zeitungsbericht sogar eine feindliche Übernahme.
Citigroup könnte die Pläne der niederländischen Bank ABN Amro für eine Fusion mit dem britischen Rivalen Barclays durchkreuzen. Die US-Bank erwägt laut einem Zeitungsbericht sogar eine feindliche Übernahme.
FTD.de - Industrie - Nachrichten - Eon plant offenbar drastisches Sparprogramm
FTD.de - Industrie - Nachrichten - Eon plant offenbar drastisches Sparprogramm
Trotz üppiger Milliardengewinne plant Deutschlands größter Energieversorger Eon nach Gewerkschaftsangaben ein drastisches Sparprogramm zu Lasten seiner Mitarbeiter. Sie sollen mehr arbeiten, aber weniger verdienen.
Trotz üppiger Milliardengewinne plant Deutschlands größter Energieversorger Eon nach Gewerkschaftsangaben ein drastisches Sparprogramm zu Lasten seiner Mitarbeiter. Sie sollen mehr arbeiten, aber weniger verdienen.
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - "Selbst um Kommas wurde gerungen"
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - "Selbst um Kommas wurde gerungen"
Die "Berliner Erklärung" der Staats- und Regierungschefs der EU, deren vorletzte Version am Freitag bekannt wurde, wirkt beim Lesen nicht gerade spektakulär. Trotzdem wurde um die Details bis zuletzt gerungen.
Die "Berliner Erklärung" der Staats- und Regierungschefs der EU, deren vorletzte Version am Freitag bekannt wurde, wirkt beim Lesen nicht gerade spektakulär. Trotzdem wurde um die Details bis zuletzt gerungen.
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Schwere Zeiten für Steinbrück: „Umzingelt von Begehrlichkeiten“
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Schwere Zeiten für Steinbrück: „Umzingelt von Begehrlichkeiten“
Zur Abwehr von Begehrlichkeiten wird der Finanzminister in den nächsten Wochen viele Freunde brauchen, sein Parteiamt nützt ihm dabei wenig. Peer Steinbrück ist mächtiger als einst Eichel, aber trotzdem ein Solitär. Ein Porträt von Günter Bannas.
Zur Abwehr von Begehrlichkeiten wird der Finanzminister in den nächsten Wochen viele Freunde brauchen, sein Parteiamt nützt ihm dabei wenig. Peer Steinbrück ist mächtiger als einst Eichel, aber trotzdem ein Solitär. Ein Porträt von Günter Bannas.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Europäische Union - Politik - FAZ.NET - EU-Ratspräsidentschaft: Ein halbes Jahr Dreifaltigkeit
Europäische Union - Politik - FAZ.NET - EU-Ratspräsidentschaft: Ein halbes Jahr Dreifaltigkeit
Sechs Monate lang muss Angela Merkel Kanzlerschaft, Parteivorsitz und EU-Ratspräsidentschaft unter einen Hut bringen. Worin liegt das Geheimnis des Erfolgs? Berthold Kohler hat die Kanzlerin-Präsidentin nach Rom begleitet.
Sechs Monate lang muss Angela Merkel Kanzlerschaft, Parteivorsitz und EU-Ratspräsidentschaft unter einen Hut bringen. Worin liegt das Geheimnis des Erfolgs? Berthold Kohler hat die Kanzlerin-Präsidentin nach Rom begleitet.
CeBIT - Trends und Themen CeBIT 2007
CeBIT - Trends und Themen CeBIT 2007
Trends und Themen CeBIT 2007
Zum Abschluss der CeBIT 2007
Die CeBIT war erneut die Messe für Innovationen in der ITK-Branche. Zu den Highlights 2007 gehörten neue Dienste rund um Voice over IP (VoIP) und IPTV, das mobile Fernsehen sowie HD-DVD und Blu-Ray.
Weitere Top-Themen waren der Einsatz energiesparender Technologien, IT-Sicherheit sowie leistungsstärkere Telematik- und Navigationssysteme. Viel diskutiert wurden außerdem die Einsatzmöglichkeiten von Auto ID/RFID, SOA-basierte Unternehmenslösungen, "Software as a Service" und neue Entwicklungen im Bereich eGovernment.
Trends und Themen CeBIT 2007
Zum Abschluss der CeBIT 2007
Die CeBIT war erneut die Messe für Innovationen in der ITK-Branche. Zu den Highlights 2007 gehörten neue Dienste rund um Voice over IP (VoIP) und IPTV, das mobile Fernsehen sowie HD-DVD und Blu-Ray.
Weitere Top-Themen waren der Einsatz energiesparender Technologien, IT-Sicherheit sowie leistungsstärkere Telematik- und Navigationssysteme. Viel diskutiert wurden außerdem die Einsatzmöglichkeiten von Auto ID/RFID, SOA-basierte Unternehmenslösungen, "Software as a Service" und neue Entwicklungen im Bereich eGovernment.
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Drogenbeauftragte warnt vor Flickenteppich beim Rauchverbot
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Drogenbeauftragte warnt vor Flickenteppich beim Rauchverbot
Die Drogenbeauftragte der Bundesregierung, Sabine Bätzing, dringt auf einen einheitlichen Schutz der Nichtraucher in ganz Deutschland. Ein einheitlicher Kompromiss scheint inzwischen unerreichbar.
Die Drogenbeauftragte der Bundesregierung, Sabine Bätzing, dringt auf einen einheitlichen Schutz der Nichtraucher in ganz Deutschland. Ein einheitlicher Kompromiss scheint inzwischen unerreichbar.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Rentenerhöhung "kein Grund zum Jubeln"
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Rentenerhöhung "kein Grund zum Jubeln"
Nach drei Nullrunden erhalten Deutschlands Senioren ab diesem Sommer höhere Renten. Franz Müntefering kündigte dies am Mittwochmorgen im Fernsehen an. Allerdings musste auch der Bundesarbeitsminister zugeben: Stark ist der Anstieg nicht.
Nach drei Nullrunden erhalten Deutschlands Senioren ab diesem Sommer höhere Renten. Franz Müntefering kündigte dies am Mittwochmorgen im Fernsehen an. Allerdings musste auch der Bundesarbeitsminister zugeben: Stark ist der Anstieg nicht.
FTD.de - Kommentare - Leitartikel - Uno-Bildungsbericht - Überflüssige Anklage
FTD.de - Kommentare - Leitartikel - Uno-Bildungsbericht - Überflüssige Anklage
Wieder wird Deutschland für sein Schulsystem getadelt, und das gleich von höchster Stelle, von den Vereinten Nationen. Wieder ist die politische Aufregung in Deutschland groß.
Wieder wird Deutschland für sein Schulsystem getadelt, und das gleich von höchster Stelle, von den Vereinten Nationen. Wieder ist die politische Aufregung in Deutschland groß.
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - Bauern melken die EU
FTD.de - Europa - Nachrichten - Bauern melken die EU
Europas Landwirte erhalten von der EU offenbar zu Unrecht jedes Jahr etwa 20 Mrd. Euro. Auch in Deutschland soll fast die Hälfte der Anträge zu Unrecht bewilligt werden - nun wird das Geld zurückgefordert.
Europas Landwirte erhalten von der EU offenbar zu Unrecht jedes Jahr etwa 20 Mrd. Euro. Auch in Deutschland soll fast die Hälfte der Anträge zu Unrecht bewilligt werden - nun wird das Geld zurückgefordert.
FTD.de - Medien+Internet - Nachrichten - Oracles Einkaufstour zahlt sich aus
FTD.de - Medien+Internet - Nachrichten - Oracles Einkaufstour zahlt sich aus
Der kalifornische Softwarekonzern Oracle profitiert von seiner mehrjährigen, weit über 22 Mrd. $ teuren Einkaufstour. Umsatz und Gewinn stiegen im dritten Quartal deutlich. Experten sorgen sich aber über die Risiken der Expansion - denn satt ist Oracle noch lange nicht.
Der kalifornische Softwarekonzern Oracle profitiert von seiner mehrjährigen, weit über 22 Mrd. $ teuren Einkaufstour. Umsatz und Gewinn stiegen im dritten Quartal deutlich. Experten sorgen sich aber über die Risiken der Expansion - denn satt ist Oracle noch lange nicht.
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Armut trifft Arbeiter besonders hart
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Armut trifft Arbeiter besonders hart
Armut trifft Arbeiter besonders hart
von Monika Dunkel (Berlin)
Die Armut in Deutschland hat sich in den vergangenen fünf Jahren verfestigt. Zu diesem Ergebnis kommt eine Studie des Deutschen Instituts für Wirtschaftsforschung (DIW) in Zusammenarbeit mit Infratest Sozialforschung. Der Mittelstand bleibt allerdings bislang verschont.
Grundlage für die Studie war ein sozio-ökonomisches Panel. "Eine Ausbreitung der Prekarität, das heißt des Pendelns zwischen der 'Mitte' und der 'Armut' ist nicht zu beobachten", resümierte Olaf Groh-Samberg, der Autor der Studie.
Damit widerspricht die Studie Szenarien, nach denen große Teile der Gesellschaft von Armut bedroht seien. "Wer von einer kollektiven Abstiegsbedrohung der gesamten Gesellschaft spricht, dramatisiert das Armutsproblem und blendet die Realität aus", so Groh-Samberg. Der 2. Armuts- und Reichtumsbericht der Bundesregierung hatte die Einkommensarmut auf dem höchsten Stand seit 20 Jahren verortet. Er dient seither als Beleg für eine Abstiegsbedrohung der Mittelschicht.
Das DIW misst Armut am Haushaltseinkommen und an Notlagen in verschiedenen Lebensbereichen (Wohnungsprobleme, Konsumdefizite, Arbeitslosigkeit oder fehlende Rücklagen). Die ausländische Bevölkerung wird dabei berücksichtigt. Als Prekariat werden Haushalte bezeichnet, deren permanentes Einkommen 60 Prozent des Durchschnittseinkommens beträgt und die damit dauerhaft von Armut bedroht sind. Seit Beginn der 90er Jahre, so das DIW, ist diese Zone jedoch weit gehend stabil.
Insgesamt stieg die Einkommensarmut von 12 Prozent im Jahr 1999 auf über 17 Prozent in 2005. Hauptbetroffene der Armut sind Arbeiter, insbesondere gering Qualifizierte, Arbeiterfamilien mit Migrationshintergrund oder mit mehreren Kindern. Zehn Prozent der Bevölkerung leben danach in verfestigter Armut. Ihr Einkommen liegt bei 43 Prozent des Durchschnittseinkommens, also deutlich unter der offiziellen Armutsschwelle von 50 Prozent des Durchschnittseinkommens.
Armut trifft Arbeiter besonders hart
von Monika Dunkel (Berlin)
Die Armut in Deutschland hat sich in den vergangenen fünf Jahren verfestigt. Zu diesem Ergebnis kommt eine Studie des Deutschen Instituts für Wirtschaftsforschung (DIW) in Zusammenarbeit mit Infratest Sozialforschung. Der Mittelstand bleibt allerdings bislang verschont.
Grundlage für die Studie war ein sozio-ökonomisches Panel. "Eine Ausbreitung der Prekarität, das heißt des Pendelns zwischen der 'Mitte' und der 'Armut' ist nicht zu beobachten", resümierte Olaf Groh-Samberg, der Autor der Studie.
Damit widerspricht die Studie Szenarien, nach denen große Teile der Gesellschaft von Armut bedroht seien. "Wer von einer kollektiven Abstiegsbedrohung der gesamten Gesellschaft spricht, dramatisiert das Armutsproblem und blendet die Realität aus", so Groh-Samberg. Der 2. Armuts- und Reichtumsbericht der Bundesregierung hatte die Einkommensarmut auf dem höchsten Stand seit 20 Jahren verortet. Er dient seither als Beleg für eine Abstiegsbedrohung der Mittelschicht.
Das DIW misst Armut am Haushaltseinkommen und an Notlagen in verschiedenen Lebensbereichen (Wohnungsprobleme, Konsumdefizite, Arbeitslosigkeit oder fehlende Rücklagen). Die ausländische Bevölkerung wird dabei berücksichtigt. Als Prekariat werden Haushalte bezeichnet, deren permanentes Einkommen 60 Prozent des Durchschnittseinkommens beträgt und die damit dauerhaft von Armut bedroht sind. Seit Beginn der 90er Jahre, so das DIW, ist diese Zone jedoch weit gehend stabil.
Insgesamt stieg die Einkommensarmut von 12 Prozent im Jahr 1999 auf über 17 Prozent in 2005. Hauptbetroffene der Armut sind Arbeiter, insbesondere gering Qualifizierte, Arbeiterfamilien mit Migrationshintergrund oder mit mehreren Kindern. Zehn Prozent der Bevölkerung leben danach in verfestigter Armut. Ihr Einkommen liegt bei 43 Prozent des Durchschnittseinkommens, also deutlich unter der offiziellen Armutsschwelle von 50 Prozent des Durchschnittseinkommens.
FTD.de - IT+Telekommunikation - Nachrichten - Was von der Cebit übrig bleibt
FTD.de - IT+Telekommunikation - Nachrichten - Was von der Cebit übrig bleibt
Die IT-Branche ist begeistert: Noch mehr Besucher als im vergangenen Jahr strömten zur Cebit nach Hannover und sorgten für volle Auftragsbücher. Trotz Absagen präsentierte sich die betagte Messe höchst modern.
Die IT-Branche ist begeistert: Noch mehr Besucher als im vergangenen Jahr strömten zur Cebit nach Hannover und sorgten für volle Auftragsbücher. Trotz Absagen präsentierte sich die betagte Messe höchst modern.
FTD.de - IT+Telekommunikation - Nachrichten - Cebit sieht Trendwende erreicht
FTD.de - IT+Telekommunikation - Nachrichten - Cebit sieht Trendwende erreicht
Mit einem Besucheranstieg und Milliardenaufträgen für die High-Tech-Branche ist die weltgrößte Computermesse Cebit in Hannover erfolgreich zu Ende gegangen. Der Veranstalter sieht bereits die Trendwende erreicht.
Mit einem Besucheranstieg und Milliardenaufträgen für die High-Tech-Branche ist die weltgrößte Computermesse Cebit in Hannover erfolgreich zu Ende gegangen. Der Veranstalter sieht bereits die Trendwende erreicht.
Extra: Das Terrorjahr 77 - die Geschichte der RAF - stern.de
Extra: Das Terrorjahr 77 - die Geschichte der RAF - stern.de
Vor 30 Jahren ermordete die Rote Armee Fraktion Arbeitgeberpräsident Hanns-Martin Schleyer. Heute schlagen die Wellen hoch, wenn über die mögliche Begnadigung des Terroristen Christian Klar diskutiert wird. stern.de sprach mit dem Politologen Wolfgang Kraushaar über das Erbe des Terrors.
Vor 30 Jahren ermordete die Rote Armee Fraktion Arbeitgeberpräsident Hanns-Martin Schleyer. Heute schlagen die Wellen hoch, wenn über die mögliche Begnadigung des Terroristen Christian Klar diskutiert wird. stern.de sprach mit dem Politologen Wolfgang Kraushaar über das Erbe des Terrors.
Hintergründe - Politik - FAZ.NET - RAF-Terroristen: Recht vor Gnade
Hintergründe - Politik - FAZ.NET - RAF-Terroristen: Recht vor Gnade
Als Kriegsgefangene wollten Christian Klar und Brigitte Mohnhaupt nach ihrer Festnahme behandelt werden. Wie die übrigen Angehörigen der „Rote-Armee-Fraktion“ sahen sie sich im Krieg gegen den Staat, gegen das System. Ihre mordenden Banden nannten sich Kommandos.
Als Kriegsgefangene wollten Christian Klar und Brigitte Mohnhaupt nach ihrer Festnahme behandelt werden. Wie die übrigen Angehörigen der „Rote-Armee-Fraktion“ sahen sie sich im Krieg gegen den Staat, gegen das System. Ihre mordenden Banden nannten sich Kommandos.
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Alterseinkünfte: Die Rente steigt - zumindest ein bisschen
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Alterseinkünfte: Die Rente steigt - zumindest ein bisschen
Nach drei Nullrunden in Folge sollen die Rentner ab Juli mehr Geld bekommen. Um 0,54 Prozent sollen die Alterseinkünfte steigen. Das sind knapp sechs Euro für den "Standardrentner" und nicht mal ein Inflationsausgleich.
Nach drei Nullrunden in Folge sollen die Rentner ab Juli mehr Geld bekommen. Um 0,54 Prozent sollen die Alterseinkünfte steigen. Das sind knapp sechs Euro für den "Standardrentner" und nicht mal ein Inflationsausgleich.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - „Raketenstreit“: Union ruft SPD zur Mäßigung auf
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - „Raketenstreit“: Union ruft SPD zur Mäßigung auf
Die Union verlangt von ihrem SPD-Koalitionspartner Mäßigung in der innenpolitischen Debatte über die amerikanischen Raketenabwehr-Pläne. Der parlamentarische Geschäftsführer der Unionsfraktion Röttgen forderte die SPD auf, bei diesem Thema „parteipolitische Kalkulationen zurückzustellen“.
Die Union verlangt von ihrem SPD-Koalitionspartner Mäßigung in der innenpolitischen Debatte über die amerikanischen Raketenabwehr-Pläne. Der parlamentarische Geschäftsführer der Unionsfraktion Röttgen forderte die SPD auf, bei diesem Thema „parteipolitische Kalkulationen zurückzustellen“.
Bücher - Feuilleton - FAZ.NET - Günter Grass: Ich war dabei
Bücher - Feuilleton - FAZ.NET - Günter Grass: Ich war dabei
Im vergangenen August enthüllte Günter Grass der erstaunten Weltöffentlichkeit, er habe der Waffen-SS angehört. Sein (unfreiwilliges?) Geständnis verarbeitet er nun mit dem Gedichtband "Dummer August". Es ist eine Anklageschrift gegen seine Kritiker, die dem Leser die Augen tränen lässt.
Im vergangenen August enthüllte Günter Grass der erstaunten Weltöffentlichkeit, er habe der Waffen-SS angehört. Sein (unfreiwilliges?) Geständnis verarbeitet er nun mit dem Gedichtband "Dummer August". Es ist eine Anklageschrift gegen seine Kritiker, die dem Leser die Augen tränen lässt.
Banken, Private Equity & Dienstleistungen - Wirtschaft - FAZ.NET - Bankenfusionen: Vor der großen Welle
Banken, Private Equity & Dienstleistungen - Wirtschaft - FAZ.NET - Bankenfusionen: Vor der großen Welle
20. März 2007
Grenzüberschreitende Bankenfusionen sind in Europa rar. Das hat viel mit der unterschiedlichen Regulierung der regionalen Märkte zu tun. In einem Dienstleistungsgeschäft wie dem Bankgewerbe wiegen aber auch sprachliche und kulturelle Differenzen schwerer als in produzierenden Industrien.
Es ist deshalb gefährlich, einen länderübergreifenden Zusammenschluss zweier Großbanken gleich zum Katalysator einer größeren Konsolidierungswelle hochzustilisieren. Weder die Übernahme der britischen Abbey National durch die spanische Santander noch der Kauf der Hypo-Vereinsbank durch den italienischen Unicredit lösten in der europäischen Bankenlandschaft ein größeres Beben aus.
Eine für Europa neue Dimension
Das könnte sich aber ändern, wenn die britische Barclays Bank ein freundliches Angebot für die niederländische ABN Amro abgeben würde. Das wäre eine Übernahme in einer für Europa neuen Dimension. Reaktionen würden nicht ausbleiben.
Zum einen gibt es einige Banken, die bei einer Fusion mit ABN Amro weit höhere Synergien realisieren könnten, als dies bei Barclays der Fall wäre. Zum anderen gilt Barclays selbst aufgrund seiner Erfolge im Investmentbanking und in der Vermögensverwaltung als attraktives Übernahmeobjekt. Seit Monaten kursieren Gerüchte, die Bank of America habe Barclays ins Visier genommen. Keine Frage, 2007 wird für das europäische Geldgewerbe ein außerordentlich spannendes Jahr werden.
Text: F.A.Z., 20.03.2007, Nr. 67 / Seite 11
20. März 2007
Grenzüberschreitende Bankenfusionen sind in Europa rar. Das hat viel mit der unterschiedlichen Regulierung der regionalen Märkte zu tun. In einem Dienstleistungsgeschäft wie dem Bankgewerbe wiegen aber auch sprachliche und kulturelle Differenzen schwerer als in produzierenden Industrien.
Es ist deshalb gefährlich, einen länderübergreifenden Zusammenschluss zweier Großbanken gleich zum Katalysator einer größeren Konsolidierungswelle hochzustilisieren. Weder die Übernahme der britischen Abbey National durch die spanische Santander noch der Kauf der Hypo-Vereinsbank durch den italienischen Unicredit lösten in der europäischen Bankenlandschaft ein größeres Beben aus.
Eine für Europa neue Dimension
Das könnte sich aber ändern, wenn die britische Barclays Bank ein freundliches Angebot für die niederländische ABN Amro abgeben würde. Das wäre eine Übernahme in einer für Europa neuen Dimension. Reaktionen würden nicht ausbleiben.
Zum einen gibt es einige Banken, die bei einer Fusion mit ABN Amro weit höhere Synergien realisieren könnten, als dies bei Barclays der Fall wäre. Zum anderen gilt Barclays selbst aufgrund seiner Erfolge im Investmentbanking und in der Vermögensverwaltung als attraktives Übernahmeobjekt. Seit Monaten kursieren Gerüchte, die Bank of America habe Barclays ins Visier genommen. Keine Frage, 2007 wird für das europäische Geldgewerbe ein außerordentlich spannendes Jahr werden.
Text: F.A.Z., 20.03.2007, Nr. 67 / Seite 11
FTD.de - Finanzdienstleister - Nachrichten - Hedge-Fonds will Preis für ABN Amro nach oben treiben
FTD.de - Finanzdienstleister - Nachrichten - Hedge-Fonds will Preis für ABN Amro nach oben treiben
Im Rennen um die größte niederländische Bank ABN Amro hofft der Großaktionär TCI offenbar auf einen Bieterkampf. Der Hedge-Fonds erwartet sich davon einen höheren Preis. An der Börse steigt bereits der Wert des Unternehmens.
Im Rennen um die größte niederländische Bank ABN Amro hofft der Großaktionär TCI offenbar auf einen Bieterkampf. Der Hedge-Fonds erwartet sich davon einen höheren Preis. An der Börse steigt bereits der Wert des Unternehmens.
FTD.de - International - Nachrichten - Streit um US-Raketenabwehr wird heftiger
FTD.de - International - Nachrichten - Streit um US-Raketenabwehr wird heftiger
Im Koalitionsstreit um das geplante US-Raketenabwehrsystem in Osteuropa verschärft die Union ihre Angriffe auf SPD-Chef Kurt Beck. Nun soll sich auch der Bundestag mit dem Thema beschäftigen.
Im Koalitionsstreit um das geplante US-Raketenabwehrsystem in Osteuropa verschärft die Union ihre Angriffe auf SPD-Chef Kurt Beck. Nun soll sich auch der Bundestag mit dem Thema beschäftigen.
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Vier Streiter gegen Denglisch
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Vier Streiter gegen Denglisch
Die Union sorgt sich um die deutsche Sprache. Vier Bundestagsabgeordnete wollen die Verbraucher vor zu vielen Anglizismen schützen. Doch so ganz einig sind sich die Initiatoren nicht.
Die Union sorgt sich um die deutsche Sprache. Vier Bundestagsabgeordnete wollen die Verbraucher vor zu vielen Anglizismen schützen. Doch so ganz einig sind sich die Initiatoren nicht.
FT.com / World / Europe - German economy to continue growing
FT.com / World / Europe - German economy to continue growing
German economy to continue growing
By Ralph Atkins in Frankfurt
Published: March 20 2007 17:27 | Last updated: March 20 2007 17:27
The chrome and red-panelled coffee bar at BMW’s main showroom in Frankfurt, Germany’s financial capital, is busy with lunchtime customers There is scant evidence that this is an industry hit by the biggest tax increase in the country’s history.
A three percentage point rise in German value added tax at the start of 2007 has had “as good as no effect”, says gently smiling Philipp von Sahr, a 20-year BMW veteran who heads the local sales team.
Mr von Sahr’s upbeat assessment illustrates one of the biggest surprises of recent economic history. When Angela Merkel, chancellor, unveiled plans to shore up the country’s finances with the tax increase, economists predicted a large jump in inflation and said Germany’s economic recovery would go into reverse.
Three months after the rise, inflation is up and activity has probably slowed temporarily. But growth forecasts for 2007 are being revised up as other, overwhelmingly positive, factors compensate for any damaging impact of the VAT rise.
At the spacious, brightly lit BMW showroom on Frankfurt’s Hanauer Landstrasse, sales of new cars have held up largely because it serves a disproportionately high number of business clients, who can reclaim the VAT. But Mr von Sahr also pays tribute to BMW’s products and to German economic confidence.
“Department stores probably saw a rush of sales in October, November and December and then a slack period in January. For us the boom and then slack period have been much less. We’ve had a good start to the year, we’re pleased.”
Nationally, car dealers have not been as lucky – new car registrations in February were 15 per cent lower than the same month a year before, according to the VDA automotive industry association. German retail sales excluding cars have also fallen, by 5.1 per cent in January compared with December.
But the evidence suggests that simply the timing of purchases changed; car sales soared late last year, before the VAT increase. At the same time the German recovery appears to have been sufficiently strong at the time of the VAT rise to withstand the shock: global demand has supported growth, industrial production is up and business confidence – as shown by indicators such as the Ifo institute’s business climate index – remain high.
“It is hard to say that the VAT increase has scared people, or made companies less likely to hire or invest,” says Dirk Schumacher, economist at Goldman Sachs.
Whereas negative growth had been expected in the first three months of 2007, economists now believe figures released on May 15 could show that German gross domestic product in the first quarter will have increased by as much as 0.5 per cent (after an exceptionally strong 0.9 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2006).
The effects on inflation have also been more benign than originally expected. The Kiel-based Institute for the World Economy (IfW) estimates that, by January, the VAT rise had increased German inflation by up to 1 percentage point, with a large part of the rise having occurred as early as last October. In turn, inflation in the 13-country eurozone was probably about 0.3 percentage points higher than it would otherwise have been.
But the effects have been wiped out by falling oil prices. Despite all the gloomy prognosis to the contrary, eurozone inflation, at just 1.8 per cent in February, remains clearly within the European Central Bank’s target of an annual rate “below but close” to 2 per cent.
The chances of a VAT-caused inflation shock have passed, says Carsten-Patrick Meier, one of the authors of the IfW report. “In principle, the whole effect must have gone through.”
That will not stop the ECB worrying: its monthly bulletin last week noted that “some further effects may still occur”. But the central bank’s inflation angst is being driven more by fears that prices will rise as a result of stronger growth squeezes at capacity limits and encourage higher wage settlements.
Does Germany’s VAT experience offer lessons for other European countries with large budget holes? The European Commission, keen to encourage fiscal discipline, supported Berlin’s move. But Germany’s VAT rate was lower than that for many other eurozone countries.
At the Frankfurt BMW showroom, Mr von Sahr would not wish a VAT rise on others. “It wasn’t a measure that boosted the economy, let’s put it that way.”
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
German economy to continue growing
By Ralph Atkins in Frankfurt
Published: March 20 2007 17:27 | Last updated: March 20 2007 17:27
The chrome and red-panelled coffee bar at BMW’s main showroom in Frankfurt, Germany’s financial capital, is busy with lunchtime customers There is scant evidence that this is an industry hit by the biggest tax increase in the country’s history.
A three percentage point rise in German value added tax at the start of 2007 has had “as good as no effect”, says gently smiling Philipp von Sahr, a 20-year BMW veteran who heads the local sales team.
Mr von Sahr’s upbeat assessment illustrates one of the biggest surprises of recent economic history. When Angela Merkel, chancellor, unveiled plans to shore up the country’s finances with the tax increase, economists predicted a large jump in inflation and said Germany’s economic recovery would go into reverse.
Three months after the rise, inflation is up and activity has probably slowed temporarily. But growth forecasts for 2007 are being revised up as other, overwhelmingly positive, factors compensate for any damaging impact of the VAT rise.
At the spacious, brightly lit BMW showroom on Frankfurt’s Hanauer Landstrasse, sales of new cars have held up largely because it serves a disproportionately high number of business clients, who can reclaim the VAT. But Mr von Sahr also pays tribute to BMW’s products and to German economic confidence.
“Department stores probably saw a rush of sales in October, November and December and then a slack period in January. For us the boom and then slack period have been much less. We’ve had a good start to the year, we’re pleased.”
Nationally, car dealers have not been as lucky – new car registrations in February were 15 per cent lower than the same month a year before, according to the VDA automotive industry association. German retail sales excluding cars have also fallen, by 5.1 per cent in January compared with December.
But the evidence suggests that simply the timing of purchases changed; car sales soared late last year, before the VAT increase. At the same time the German recovery appears to have been sufficiently strong at the time of the VAT rise to withstand the shock: global demand has supported growth, industrial production is up and business confidence – as shown by indicators such as the Ifo institute’s business climate index – remain high.
“It is hard to say that the VAT increase has scared people, or made companies less likely to hire or invest,” says Dirk Schumacher, economist at Goldman Sachs.
Whereas negative growth had been expected in the first three months of 2007, economists now believe figures released on May 15 could show that German gross domestic product in the first quarter will have increased by as much as 0.5 per cent (after an exceptionally strong 0.9 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2006).
The effects on inflation have also been more benign than originally expected. The Kiel-based Institute for the World Economy (IfW) estimates that, by January, the VAT rise had increased German inflation by up to 1 percentage point, with a large part of the rise having occurred as early as last October. In turn, inflation in the 13-country eurozone was probably about 0.3 percentage points higher than it would otherwise have been.
But the effects have been wiped out by falling oil prices. Despite all the gloomy prognosis to the contrary, eurozone inflation, at just 1.8 per cent in February, remains clearly within the European Central Bank’s target of an annual rate “below but close” to 2 per cent.
The chances of a VAT-caused inflation shock have passed, says Carsten-Patrick Meier, one of the authors of the IfW report. “In principle, the whole effect must have gone through.”
That will not stop the ECB worrying: its monthly bulletin last week noted that “some further effects may still occur”. But the central bank’s inflation angst is being driven more by fears that prices will rise as a result of stronger growth squeezes at capacity limits and encourage higher wage settlements.
Does Germany’s VAT experience offer lessons for other European countries with large budget holes? The European Commission, keen to encourage fiscal discipline, supported Berlin’s move. But Germany’s VAT rate was lower than that for many other eurozone countries.
At the Frankfurt BMW showroom, Mr von Sahr would not wish a VAT rise on others. “It wasn’t a measure that boosted the economy, let’s put it that way.”
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
FT.com / World / Europe - Twin helps west German town to tackle its shrinking population
FT.com / World / Europe - Twin helps west German town to tackle its shrinking population
Twin helps west German town to tackle its shrinking population
By Hugh Williamson in Erlbach, eastern Germany
Published: March 20 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 20 2007 02:00
Klaus Herold believes that every little helps when it comes to tackling the biggest problem facing his village - population decline.
"Last year in Erlbach, 13 people died but 14 babies were born. What a good sign for the future," exclaims the mayor of this east German community near the Czech border.
Like many western societies, eastern Germany is struggling to cope with an ageing population, with remoter areas such as Erlbach also hit by outward migration.
The village's population has shrunk by 15 per cent to 1,880 since 1990, with more than a third of those left over 60 years old. Mr Herold, 63, and his supporters have not only set about confronting this trend, they are helping others to do so as well.
On the strength of some early success, his village, in a hilly region 120km south of Leipzig, has recently entered into an unusual partnership with Battenberg, a town in the rich west German state of Hesse.
While Erlbach has for more than a decade been seeking ways to hold on to its population and better look after them, Battenberg has only recently woken up to the problem.
"We have been twinned with towns in the UK and France for years, but it is through our link with Erlbach that we can definitely learn something," says Heinfried Horsel, mayor of Battenberg, 110km north of Frankfurt.
The partnership marks one of the first public acknowledgements by west German politicians that they can learn from their poorer cousins in the east - challenging the "west knows best" view that has coloured German politics since the Berlin Wall fell in 1989.
About half of west Germans have never been to the east, according to a survey, and many see the ex-communist region as a source not of solutions but of problems, such as high unemployment, social malaise and far-right violence.
The Erlbach-Battenberg alliance is part of a wider agreement between Saxony, Erlbach's home state, and Hesse, where the state premier Roland Koch admits the east can offer pointers on supporting young families and re-gearing healthcare to older people.
Others are benefiting too. Saxony is part of a new alliance of 10 European regions, including northern England, which believes that within 50 years most parts of Europe will face ageing problems, says Georg Milbradt, Saxony state premier.
He is pleased that his state's efforts in managing a population decline from 5m to 4.2m since 1988 are being acknowledged. "The east has been something of a laboratory on this issue, so it's good that awareness is finally growing in the west," he says.
On a tour through Erlbach, Mr Herold highlights the initiatives that are helping to keep the population stable. The town has targeted European Union and regional funding not just into new roads and infrastructure but also into family-oriented facilities usually associated with larger towns, such as a new community centre with programmes for both old and young, an adventure playground, a school and a kindergarten.
More unusually, the town council in 2003 - the village's 700th anniversary - offered €700 ($930, £480) to each mother who had a child that year.
In addition, the 35,000 tourists who visit annually provide an economic lifeline, attracted by hill walking, an open-air local history museum and unusual cultural events, such as a yearly international wood sculpting competition.
Mr Herold says he hopes Erlbach will grow this year - several newcomers have dropped in to see him recently - and he is looking forward to using the new partnership to "give something back" to west Germany.
He also wants to learn from Battenberg, a town of 5,700 people, known in Hesse for its success in encouraging young couples to live downtown rather than moving to the suburbs.
But sharing starts small, he insists: "When the weather improves, I'll drive across to Battenberg, and its mayor is coming here in September for hill walking." As he says, every little helps.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Twin helps west German town to tackle its shrinking population
By Hugh Williamson in Erlbach, eastern Germany
Published: March 20 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 20 2007 02:00
Klaus Herold believes that every little helps when it comes to tackling the biggest problem facing his village - population decline.
"Last year in Erlbach, 13 people died but 14 babies were born. What a good sign for the future," exclaims the mayor of this east German community near the Czech border.
Like many western societies, eastern Germany is struggling to cope with an ageing population, with remoter areas such as Erlbach also hit by outward migration.
The village's population has shrunk by 15 per cent to 1,880 since 1990, with more than a third of those left over 60 years old. Mr Herold, 63, and his supporters have not only set about confronting this trend, they are helping others to do so as well.
On the strength of some early success, his village, in a hilly region 120km south of Leipzig, has recently entered into an unusual partnership with Battenberg, a town in the rich west German state of Hesse.
While Erlbach has for more than a decade been seeking ways to hold on to its population and better look after them, Battenberg has only recently woken up to the problem.
"We have been twinned with towns in the UK and France for years, but it is through our link with Erlbach that we can definitely learn something," says Heinfried Horsel, mayor of Battenberg, 110km north of Frankfurt.
The partnership marks one of the first public acknowledgements by west German politicians that they can learn from their poorer cousins in the east - challenging the "west knows best" view that has coloured German politics since the Berlin Wall fell in 1989.
About half of west Germans have never been to the east, according to a survey, and many see the ex-communist region as a source not of solutions but of problems, such as high unemployment, social malaise and far-right violence.
The Erlbach-Battenberg alliance is part of a wider agreement between Saxony, Erlbach's home state, and Hesse, where the state premier Roland Koch admits the east can offer pointers on supporting young families and re-gearing healthcare to older people.
Others are benefiting too. Saxony is part of a new alliance of 10 European regions, including northern England, which believes that within 50 years most parts of Europe will face ageing problems, says Georg Milbradt, Saxony state premier.
He is pleased that his state's efforts in managing a population decline from 5m to 4.2m since 1988 are being acknowledged. "The east has been something of a laboratory on this issue, so it's good that awareness is finally growing in the west," he says.
On a tour through Erlbach, Mr Herold highlights the initiatives that are helping to keep the population stable. The town has targeted European Union and regional funding not just into new roads and infrastructure but also into family-oriented facilities usually associated with larger towns, such as a new community centre with programmes for both old and young, an adventure playground, a school and a kindergarten.
More unusually, the town council in 2003 - the village's 700th anniversary - offered €700 ($930, £480) to each mother who had a child that year.
In addition, the 35,000 tourists who visit annually provide an economic lifeline, attracted by hill walking, an open-air local history museum and unusual cultural events, such as a yearly international wood sculpting competition.
Mr Herold says he hopes Erlbach will grow this year - several newcomers have dropped in to see him recently - and he is looking forward to using the new partnership to "give something back" to west Germany.
He also wants to learn from Battenberg, a town of 5,700 people, known in Hesse for its success in encouraging young couples to live downtown rather than moving to the suburbs.
But sharing starts small, he insists: "When the weather improves, I'll drive across to Battenberg, and its mayor is coming here in September for hill walking." As he says, every little helps.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Monday, March 19, 2007
Nachrichten - Politik - FAZ.NET - Diskussion über Kinderkrippen: Steuerfinanzierung „der gerechteste Ansatz“
Nachrichten - Politik - FAZ.NET - Diskussion über Kinderkrippen: Steuerfinanzierung „der gerechteste Ansatz“
Die SPD wirft der Union unter Verweis auf die Familienpolitik vor, sie gefährde die Koalition. Das lässt Ursula von der Leyen nicht gelten. Gegenüber der F.A.Z. kündigte die Familienministerin an, eigene Vorschläge zur Finanzierung weiterer Krippenplätze unterbreiten zu wollen.
Die SPD wirft der Union unter Verweis auf die Familienpolitik vor, sie gefährde die Koalition. Das lässt Ursula von der Leyen nicht gelten. Gegenüber der F.A.Z. kündigte die Familienministerin an, eigene Vorschläge zur Finanzierung weiterer Krippenplätze unterbreiten zu wollen.
FT.com / Europe - Germany aims to capitalise on climate fears
FT.com / Europe - Germany aims to capitalise on climate fears
Germany aims to capitalise on climate fears
By Hugh Williamson in Berlin and George Parker in Brussels
Published: March 19 2007 19:19 | Last updated: March 19 2007 19:19
Germany wants to mobilise public concern over climate change to resolve another of the European Union’s trickiest problems: the relaunch of the bloc’s draft constitutional treaty.
Berlin, which holds the EU presidency, is working on ways to include the need for united action against global warming in proposals on the treaty, the Financial Times has learned.
The aim would be to give the treaty a populist push by tapping into an issue that has captured the imagination of people across Europe – regardless of national borders or political affiliation – to seek to demonstrate the relevance of the EU’s controversial new set of rules and institutions.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier, German foreign minister, alluded to Berlin’s plan in a recent speech arguing that “if we want to open this discussion [on revising the draft treaty] then climate protection is, in my view, the obvious candidate for an additional element”.
The comments were revealing as both Mr Steinmeier and chancellor Angela Merkel have otherwise stressed the need for keeping Berlin’s search for compromises on core elements of a new text out of the public eye.
The challenge of curbing climate change was also likely to feature in the “Berlin declaration”, to be signed on Sunday by EU leaders at the bloc’s 50th anniversary celebrations in the German capital, officials said.
Diplomats for other EU members said Berlin’s proposal was in line with efforts by governments and the European Commission to seize on “issues of the day” to win popular support. Europe’s current enthusiasm for tackling climate change is not reflected in this text, whose drafting began in 2002.
The EU decision this month to cut greenhouse gas emissions by a fifth from 1990 levels, plus a flurry of steps by member states – such as Britain’s climate change bill presented last week – “needed to be reflected” in Germany’s constitution plans, an official in Berlin said.
Ms Merkel has received plenty of advice on whether she should be using scissors or a pen to try to salvage the treaty when she makes proposals in June on achieving full ratification by 2009. Countries which have ratified the treaty, led by Spain, say she should take the original treaty and “improve” it, including a new section stressing Europe’s social dimension. Others have advocated taking out large sections of the original text to create a slimline treaty.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Germany aims to capitalise on climate fears
By Hugh Williamson in Berlin and George Parker in Brussels
Published: March 19 2007 19:19 | Last updated: March 19 2007 19:19
Germany wants to mobilise public concern over climate change to resolve another of the European Union’s trickiest problems: the relaunch of the bloc’s draft constitutional treaty.
Berlin, which holds the EU presidency, is working on ways to include the need for united action against global warming in proposals on the treaty, the Financial Times has learned.
The aim would be to give the treaty a populist push by tapping into an issue that has captured the imagination of people across Europe – regardless of national borders or political affiliation – to seek to demonstrate the relevance of the EU’s controversial new set of rules and institutions.
Frank-Walter Steinmeier, German foreign minister, alluded to Berlin’s plan in a recent speech arguing that “if we want to open this discussion [on revising the draft treaty] then climate protection is, in my view, the obvious candidate for an additional element”.
The comments were revealing as both Mr Steinmeier and chancellor Angela Merkel have otherwise stressed the need for keeping Berlin’s search for compromises on core elements of a new text out of the public eye.
The challenge of curbing climate change was also likely to feature in the “Berlin declaration”, to be signed on Sunday by EU leaders at the bloc’s 50th anniversary celebrations in the German capital, officials said.
Diplomats for other EU members said Berlin’s proposal was in line with efforts by governments and the European Commission to seize on “issues of the day” to win popular support. Europe’s current enthusiasm for tackling climate change is not reflected in this text, whose drafting began in 2002.
The EU decision this month to cut greenhouse gas emissions by a fifth from 1990 levels, plus a flurry of steps by member states – such as Britain’s climate change bill presented last week – “needed to be reflected” in Germany’s constitution plans, an official in Berlin said.
Ms Merkel has received plenty of advice on whether she should be using scissors or a pen to try to salvage the treaty when she makes proposals in June on achieving full ratification by 2009. Countries which have ratified the treaty, led by Spain, say she should take the original treaty and “improve” it, including a new section stressing Europe’s social dimension. Others have advocated taking out large sections of the original text to create a slimline treaty.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Fachkräftemangel: Ältere Bewerber plötzlich wieder gefragt - Wirtschaft - SPIEGEL ONLINE - Nachrichten
Fachkräftemangel: Ältere Bewerber plötzlich wieder gefragt - Wirtschaft - SPIEGEL ONLINE - Nachrichten
Zeitenwende auf dem Jobmarkt: Die Chancen für ältere Arbeitnehmer sind extrem gewachsen. Die Gewerkschaften warnen, den Firmen fehlten schlicht junge Bewerber. Dazu passend erklärt das arbeitgebernahe IW-Institut, Firmen hätten extreme Probleme, offene Stellen zu besetzen.
Zeitenwende auf dem Jobmarkt: Die Chancen für ältere Arbeitnehmer sind extrem gewachsen. Die Gewerkschaften warnen, den Firmen fehlten schlicht junge Bewerber. Dazu passend erklärt das arbeitgebernahe IW-Institut, Firmen hätten extreme Probleme, offene Stellen zu besetzen.
Friday, March 16, 2007
FTD.de - IT+Telekommunikation - Nachrichten - SAP startet Tests der Mittelstandssoftware
FTD.de - IT+Telekommunikation - Nachrichten - SAP startet Tests der Mittelstandssoftware
Der deutsche Softwarekonzern SAP plant, seine mit Spannung erwartete neue Mittelstandssoftware bis zum Jahreswechsel zur Marktreife zu bringen. Dann falle die Entscheidung, ob das Produkt einer breiten Masse potenzieller Kunden angeboten werde, sagte Konzernchef Henning Kagermann der FTD.
Bis dahin soll das Paket, das mit neuen Vertriebs- und Servicemodellen verbunden ist, von einzelnen Anwendern erprobt werden. "Hier auf der Cebit zeigen wir ausgewählten Kunden und Partnern das Produkt", sagte Kagermann.
Das neue Angebot ist ein wichtiger Baustein für SAPs künftiges Geschäft. Der weltgrößte Hersteller von Programmen zur Unternehmenssteuerung will in den kommenden Jahren im Mittelstand besonders stark wachsen. Um mehr Kunden in diesem Marktsegment gewinnen zu können, hat das Unternehmen Anfang des Jahres ein neues Produkt angekündigt. In die Mittelstandssoftware mit dem Codenamen A1S will SAP rund 300 bis 400 Mio. Euro investieren.
Mittelstand gilt als besonders attraktiv
Der Mittelstand gilt als besonders attraktiv für Firmensoftwarehersteller, weil hier die Nachfrage stark wächst. Von der neuen Software verspricht sich SAP ab 2010 rund 760 Mio. Euro zusätzlichen Jahresumsatz und 10.000 neue Kunden pro Jahr. Das Produkt soll als Software zur Miete im Internet angeboten werden - ein Geschäftsmodell, mit dem andere Anbieter in den vergangenen Jahren hohe Wachstumsraten erzielt haben. Die SAP-Software soll vor allem über Internet und Telefon verkauft werden. Sie ist auf Unternehmen zugeschnitten, die sich mit einer Standardlösung zufriedengeben und auf eine firmenspezifische Anpassung verzichten können.
Das ist ein neues Geschäftsmodell, und das bringen sie nicht an einem Tag heraus", sagte Hans-Peter Klaey, bei SAP weltweit für das Mittelstandsgeschäft verantwortlich, der FTD. Im laufenden Jahr soll es mehrere Schritte geben, um das Produkt, aber auch Service und Marktzugangsstrategien zu prüfen.
Laut Kagermann wird das neue Angebot im zweiten und dritten Quartal ausgewählten Kunden vorgestellt. Im zweiten Halbjahr können erste Unternehmen mit dem Programm arbeiten. Dann soll das Geschäftsmodell auf den Masseneinsatz ausgerichtet werden. Weil SAP nicht nur die Software fertigstellen, sondern auch die nötige Infrastruktur und den Service aufbauen muss, ist der Zeitplan nicht in Stein gemeißelt. "All die Dinge sind Risikofaktoren, die natürlich zu anderen Einschätzungen führen können", sagte Kagermann.
Vertrauen der Anleger soll zurückgewonnen werden
Der SAP-Chef hofft, während der Phase der Einführung des neuen Produkts das Vertrauen der Investoren wiederzugewinnen. Das Unternehmen hatte zuletzt enttäuscht: Sowohl die Ankündigung der zusätzlichen Investitionen als auch eine unter den Erwartungen gebliebene Geschäftsentwicklung im vergangenen Jahr ließen den Aktienkurs fallen.
Kagermann schloss nicht aus, dass SAP weiteren Kundengruppen künftig Software zur Miete anbietet. "Wenn das funktioniert, will ich nicht ausschließen, dass wir mit dem Ansatz auch in andere Schichten hineingehen", sagte er. Allerdings ist er sich sicher, dass das neue standardisierte Produkt für den Mittelstand nicht von Großkunden eingesetzt werden wird. Der SAP-Chef sieht auch keine Gefahr für die bereits etablierten Produkte seines Konzerns. "Wir wollen nicht ein bestehendes Geschäft ablösen, sondern ein Zusatzgeschäft eröffnen", sagte Kagermann.
Der weltgrößte Hersteller von Unternehmenssoftware ist für sein Wachstum auf den Mittelstand angewiesen: Bis 2010 soll der Anteil, den diese Kunden zum konzernweiten Umsatz beisteuern, von heute 30 Prozent auf 40 bis 45 Prozent wachsen. Bis 2010 will der Anbieter den Kundenstamm von 38.000 auf 100.000 ausbauen. Als mittelständisch gelten Firmen mit bis zu 2500 Mitarbeitern.
Der deutsche Softwarekonzern SAP plant, seine mit Spannung erwartete neue Mittelstandssoftware bis zum Jahreswechsel zur Marktreife zu bringen. Dann falle die Entscheidung, ob das Produkt einer breiten Masse potenzieller Kunden angeboten werde, sagte Konzernchef Henning Kagermann der FTD.
Bis dahin soll das Paket, das mit neuen Vertriebs- und Servicemodellen verbunden ist, von einzelnen Anwendern erprobt werden. "Hier auf der Cebit zeigen wir ausgewählten Kunden und Partnern das Produkt", sagte Kagermann.
Das neue Angebot ist ein wichtiger Baustein für SAPs künftiges Geschäft. Der weltgrößte Hersteller von Programmen zur Unternehmenssteuerung will in den kommenden Jahren im Mittelstand besonders stark wachsen. Um mehr Kunden in diesem Marktsegment gewinnen zu können, hat das Unternehmen Anfang des Jahres ein neues Produkt angekündigt. In die Mittelstandssoftware mit dem Codenamen A1S will SAP rund 300 bis 400 Mio. Euro investieren.
Mittelstand gilt als besonders attraktiv
Der Mittelstand gilt als besonders attraktiv für Firmensoftwarehersteller, weil hier die Nachfrage stark wächst. Von der neuen Software verspricht sich SAP ab 2010 rund 760 Mio. Euro zusätzlichen Jahresumsatz und 10.000 neue Kunden pro Jahr. Das Produkt soll als Software zur Miete im Internet angeboten werden - ein Geschäftsmodell, mit dem andere Anbieter in den vergangenen Jahren hohe Wachstumsraten erzielt haben. Die SAP-Software soll vor allem über Internet und Telefon verkauft werden. Sie ist auf Unternehmen zugeschnitten, die sich mit einer Standardlösung zufriedengeben und auf eine firmenspezifische Anpassung verzichten können.
Das ist ein neues Geschäftsmodell, und das bringen sie nicht an einem Tag heraus", sagte Hans-Peter Klaey, bei SAP weltweit für das Mittelstandsgeschäft verantwortlich, der FTD. Im laufenden Jahr soll es mehrere Schritte geben, um das Produkt, aber auch Service und Marktzugangsstrategien zu prüfen.
Laut Kagermann wird das neue Angebot im zweiten und dritten Quartal ausgewählten Kunden vorgestellt. Im zweiten Halbjahr können erste Unternehmen mit dem Programm arbeiten. Dann soll das Geschäftsmodell auf den Masseneinsatz ausgerichtet werden. Weil SAP nicht nur die Software fertigstellen, sondern auch die nötige Infrastruktur und den Service aufbauen muss, ist der Zeitplan nicht in Stein gemeißelt. "All die Dinge sind Risikofaktoren, die natürlich zu anderen Einschätzungen führen können", sagte Kagermann.
Vertrauen der Anleger soll zurückgewonnen werden
Der SAP-Chef hofft, während der Phase der Einführung des neuen Produkts das Vertrauen der Investoren wiederzugewinnen. Das Unternehmen hatte zuletzt enttäuscht: Sowohl die Ankündigung der zusätzlichen Investitionen als auch eine unter den Erwartungen gebliebene Geschäftsentwicklung im vergangenen Jahr ließen den Aktienkurs fallen.
Kagermann schloss nicht aus, dass SAP weiteren Kundengruppen künftig Software zur Miete anbietet. "Wenn das funktioniert, will ich nicht ausschließen, dass wir mit dem Ansatz auch in andere Schichten hineingehen", sagte er. Allerdings ist er sich sicher, dass das neue standardisierte Produkt für den Mittelstand nicht von Großkunden eingesetzt werden wird. Der SAP-Chef sieht auch keine Gefahr für die bereits etablierten Produkte seines Konzerns. "Wir wollen nicht ein bestehendes Geschäft ablösen, sondern ein Zusatzgeschäft eröffnen", sagte Kagermann.
Der weltgrößte Hersteller von Unternehmenssoftware ist für sein Wachstum auf den Mittelstand angewiesen: Bis 2010 soll der Anteil, den diese Kunden zum konzernweiten Umsatz beisteuern, von heute 30 Prozent auf 40 bis 45 Prozent wachsen. Bis 2010 will der Anbieter den Kundenstamm von 38.000 auf 100.000 ausbauen. Als mittelständisch gelten Firmen mit bis zu 2500 Mitarbeitern.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
FT.com / World / Asia-Pacific - Germany 'at more risk from terrorism'
FT.com / World / Asia-Pacific - Germany 'at more risk from terrorism': "By Peter Ehrlich and Friederike von Tiesenhausen
Published: March 15 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 15 2007 02:00
The threat of a terror attack on Germany is higher than at any time in recent years, the top police authority has warned.
FT Deutschland, the FT's sister paper, has learned that the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) is advising the government to increase the threat level. The warning follows the appearance of a video, believed to be by al-Qaeda, warning Germany over its military involvement in Afghanistan. Friederike von Tiesenhausen and Peter Ehrlich, Berlin
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007"
Published: March 15 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 15 2007 02:00
The threat of a terror attack on Germany is higher than at any time in recent years, the top police authority has warned.
FT Deutschland, the FT's sister paper, has learned that the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA) is advising the government to increase the threat level. The warning follows the appearance of a video, believed to be by al-Qaeda, warning Germany over its military involvement in Afghanistan. Friederike von Tiesenhausen and Peter Ehrlich, Berlin
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007"
FT.com / Companies / Europe - Germany's carmakers heading back to the future
FT.com / Companies / Europe - Germany's carmakers heading back to the future
By Richard Milne
Published: March 15 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 15 2007 02:00
Back-to-the-future strategies are all the rage among German carmakers.
Leading the pack is Volkswagen. A presentation of its "new" strategy last week felt like a rolling back of the clock by a decade. Its focus on volumes with an emphasis on technology and quality - not a word about profitability and affordable cars - is a throwback to the days of Ferdinand Piëch as chief executive.
Little wonder that so many consider Mr Piëch, now the chairman, as the power behind the new boss, Martin Winterkorn. The cost-cutting era seems over at VW, a mass-market producer with a manufacturing presence in the wrong place - western Europe. With Peugeot-Citroën and Renault - to say nothing of Toyota and Hyundai - seeking to boost sales too, something must give.
Yet most other German carmakers are following suit. BMW is set to achieve its sales target of 1.4m cars this year. Such growth, however, comes at a price. In the US, BMW incentives have already reached a mouth-watering $4,000 a car.
Here lies the danger of a volume strategy - encouraging companies to take whatever steps are necessary to defend their positions, even at the cost of profitability. So it is hardly surprising that the world's most profitable carmaker, Porsche, continues to shun incentives. It suffered months of falling sales as its Cayenne SUV came to the end of its lifecycle because it refused to dump them on the market. Porsche says its sales will grow only lightly until a new model is introduced in 2009. Other carmakers should take note. richard.milne@ft.com
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
By Richard Milne
Published: March 15 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 15 2007 02:00
Back-to-the-future strategies are all the rage among German carmakers.
Leading the pack is Volkswagen. A presentation of its "new" strategy last week felt like a rolling back of the clock by a decade. Its focus on volumes with an emphasis on technology and quality - not a word about profitability and affordable cars - is a throwback to the days of Ferdinand Piëch as chief executive.
Little wonder that so many consider Mr Piëch, now the chairman, as the power behind the new boss, Martin Winterkorn. The cost-cutting era seems over at VW, a mass-market producer with a manufacturing presence in the wrong place - western Europe. With Peugeot-Citroën and Renault - to say nothing of Toyota and Hyundai - seeking to boost sales too, something must give.
Yet most other German carmakers are following suit. BMW is set to achieve its sales target of 1.4m cars this year. Such growth, however, comes at a price. In the US, BMW incentives have already reached a mouth-watering $4,000 a car.
Here lies the danger of a volume strategy - encouraging companies to take whatever steps are necessary to defend their positions, even at the cost of profitability. So it is hardly surprising that the world's most profitable carmaker, Porsche, continues to shun incentives. It suffered months of falling sales as its Cayenne SUV came to the end of its lifecycle because it refused to dump them on the market. Porsche says its sales will grow only lightly until a new model is introduced in 2009. Other carmakers should take note. richard.milne@ft.com
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
FT.com / Technology - CeBIT 2007: Identity crisis fails to lessen appeal
FT.com / Technology - CeBIT 2007: Identity crisis fails to lessen appeal
Stephen Pritchard
Published: March 14 2007 09:35 | Last updated: March 14 2007 09:35
March brings variable weather to Germany’s central plain – a day of bright sunshine could easily give way to drifting snow. And the vibe around the annual CeBIT trade fair, held in Hannover, can be as hard to predict.
Observers have recently questioned the direction of the show. Is it a showcase for consumer electronics? Is it an enterprise technology fair, or a conference, a meeting place for small business, or a forum for government ministers?
Those who feel consumer electronics is the future will put much store by Apple’s decision to attend, to promote its digital TV and entertainment technologies. Much is also being made of industrial giant Siemens’ decision not to attend. Meanwhile, meetings of EU and G8 IT and telecoms ministers at CeBIT only adds to the show’s relevance to political decision-makers.
Either way, CeBIT continues to have mass appeal. CeBIT is open to the public and many of the paying visitors may be buying technology for their businesses, too.
“People close to CeBIT do become jaundiced about it, especially if they have to attend for more than three to four days,” says Tony Lock, an industry analyst with Freeform Dynamics and a CeBIT regular. “But the public flock to it, and a good proportion are IT professionals.”
CeBIT’s vast size as well as its location – Hannover is one of Germany’s smaller cities – means visitors and exhibitors alike have to plan in advance to make the most of the show.
Most private individuals and business visitors come for one or two days, according to organisers Deutsche Messe. Depending on the level of detail required, that suggests taking in between two and four halls a day. As each hall follows a clear theme, it is relatively easy to organise a focused set of meetings without needing to trek around the Messe site.
“Visitors should maximise the value of CeBIT by reading the magazines, the website and the show guides,” suggests Matthias Vogler of enteo, a vendor of IT management software based in Germany. “If you visit CeBIT, it is important to have a clear target in mind. Many exhibitors have CeBIT websites where you can book meetings with product managers or sales managers.”
Among the pluses of CeBIT, especially for smaller firms, are demonstrations of technology of a type normally reserved for large enterprises. Demonstrations can be busy, though, so it pays to turn up early.
Visitors should not worry too much about closing deals at CeBIT, however. Most exhibitors have robust systems in place for following up leads after the show, not least because leads generated at CeBIT are viewed as high quality prospects. And it would be a missed opportunity not to allow time to explore the more advanced, or even entertaining, technologies on show.
Another advantage of CeBIT is that it brings together several different strands of technology, making it an important showcase for anyone who is serious about either selling or using “converged” solutions. It also allows large and small vendors to set up stall side by side.
“We can make contacts that we would not make at other shows,” says James Tagg, CEO of Truphone, a fast-growing company in the converged internet telephony and mobile sector that is exhibiting at CeBIT and looking for partnerships.
“We get to see consumer electronics vendors, handset makers and operators that we could otherwise only see at three shows. Everybody is there, even though there is a lot of walking about,” says Mr Tagg.
Truphone should benefit from this, because there is a buzz around both internet telephony and mobile communications. The mobile halls are always among the best attended but VoIP – which is growing rapidly in Germany – is attracting serious interest from businesses and members of the public.
Internet TV and other interactive entertainments are also set to be a draw, especially on public days. But, says Deutsche Messe, CeBIT remains an important forum for lower-key, business-to-business technologies.
Customer relationship management is one area that is expected to generate much interest among business visitors, according to Dr Sven Michael Prüser, managing director of CeBIT at Deutsche Messe. “Companies see it as one of their major areas to improve,” he says. Security will also be important.
He also expects company visitors to look for ways to improve their business processes and administration, with exhibitors putting a lot of weight behind their service-oriented architecture (SOA) offerings.
This, he suggests, is simply consistent with CeBIT’s origins as an office technology show, where electric typewriters were among the first exhibits.
But CIOs and IT directors will approach CeBIT with a keen eye for convergence between consumer and business technologies, and how it could help their businesses.
Voice over IP is a good example of this, but as Dr Prüser points out, many telecoms or computer “gadgets” are increasingly at home in both consumer and business environments.
“The process of convergence has been going on for at least 10 years,” he says. “From a technological point of view, much equipment is the same, whether used at home or in the office.”
And some technologies – such as telemetry, GPS navigation and systems that combine geographic and social information may well appeal to consumers first – but could be key business tools in just three or four years, Dr Prüser predicts.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Stephen Pritchard
Published: March 14 2007 09:35 | Last updated: March 14 2007 09:35
March brings variable weather to Germany’s central plain – a day of bright sunshine could easily give way to drifting snow. And the vibe around the annual CeBIT trade fair, held in Hannover, can be as hard to predict.
Observers have recently questioned the direction of the show. Is it a showcase for consumer electronics? Is it an enterprise technology fair, or a conference, a meeting place for small business, or a forum for government ministers?
Those who feel consumer electronics is the future will put much store by Apple’s decision to attend, to promote its digital TV and entertainment technologies. Much is also being made of industrial giant Siemens’ decision not to attend. Meanwhile, meetings of EU and G8 IT and telecoms ministers at CeBIT only adds to the show’s relevance to political decision-makers.
Either way, CeBIT continues to have mass appeal. CeBIT is open to the public and many of the paying visitors may be buying technology for their businesses, too.
“People close to CeBIT do become jaundiced about it, especially if they have to attend for more than three to four days,” says Tony Lock, an industry analyst with Freeform Dynamics and a CeBIT regular. “But the public flock to it, and a good proportion are IT professionals.”
CeBIT’s vast size as well as its location – Hannover is one of Germany’s smaller cities – means visitors and exhibitors alike have to plan in advance to make the most of the show.
Most private individuals and business visitors come for one or two days, according to organisers Deutsche Messe. Depending on the level of detail required, that suggests taking in between two and four halls a day. As each hall follows a clear theme, it is relatively easy to organise a focused set of meetings without needing to trek around the Messe site.
“Visitors should maximise the value of CeBIT by reading the magazines, the website and the show guides,” suggests Matthias Vogler of enteo, a vendor of IT management software based in Germany. “If you visit CeBIT, it is important to have a clear target in mind. Many exhibitors have CeBIT websites where you can book meetings with product managers or sales managers.”
Among the pluses of CeBIT, especially for smaller firms, are demonstrations of technology of a type normally reserved for large enterprises. Demonstrations can be busy, though, so it pays to turn up early.
Visitors should not worry too much about closing deals at CeBIT, however. Most exhibitors have robust systems in place for following up leads after the show, not least because leads generated at CeBIT are viewed as high quality prospects. And it would be a missed opportunity not to allow time to explore the more advanced, or even entertaining, technologies on show.
Another advantage of CeBIT is that it brings together several different strands of technology, making it an important showcase for anyone who is serious about either selling or using “converged” solutions. It also allows large and small vendors to set up stall side by side.
“We can make contacts that we would not make at other shows,” says James Tagg, CEO of Truphone, a fast-growing company in the converged internet telephony and mobile sector that is exhibiting at CeBIT and looking for partnerships.
“We get to see consumer electronics vendors, handset makers and operators that we could otherwise only see at three shows. Everybody is there, even though there is a lot of walking about,” says Mr Tagg.
Truphone should benefit from this, because there is a buzz around both internet telephony and mobile communications. The mobile halls are always among the best attended but VoIP – which is growing rapidly in Germany – is attracting serious interest from businesses and members of the public.
Internet TV and other interactive entertainments are also set to be a draw, especially on public days. But, says Deutsche Messe, CeBIT remains an important forum for lower-key, business-to-business technologies.
Customer relationship management is one area that is expected to generate much interest among business visitors, according to Dr Sven Michael Prüser, managing director of CeBIT at Deutsche Messe. “Companies see it as one of their major areas to improve,” he says. Security will also be important.
He also expects company visitors to look for ways to improve their business processes and administration, with exhibitors putting a lot of weight behind their service-oriented architecture (SOA) offerings.
This, he suggests, is simply consistent with CeBIT’s origins as an office technology show, where electric typewriters were among the first exhibits.
But CIOs and IT directors will approach CeBIT with a keen eye for convergence between consumer and business technologies, and how it could help their businesses.
Voice over IP is a good example of this, but as Dr Prüser points out, many telecoms or computer “gadgets” are increasingly at home in both consumer and business environments.
“The process of convergence has been going on for at least 10 years,” he says. “From a technological point of view, much equipment is the same, whether used at home or in the office.”
And some technologies – such as telemetry, GPS navigation and systems that combine geographic and social information may well appeal to consumers first – but could be key business tools in just three or four years, Dr Prüser predicts.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Monday, March 12, 2007
FT.com / World / Europe - Germany promotes green awareness
FT.com / World / Europe - Germany promotes green awareness
By Hugh Williamson
Published: March 12 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 12 2007 02:00
Germany is this week building on its reputation as an advocate of environmental causes through an ambitious public education campaign, distributing to schools 6,000 free copies of a prize-winning documentary byAl Gore, the former US vice-president, writes Hugh Williamson in Berlin.
The Oscar-winning film, An Inconvenient Truth, will be shown to 5,000 teachers next Sunday in special cinema screenings in 27 German cities.A DVD copy will then be sent to schools to be watched by children aged nine and upwards. The scheme is being run by the environment ministry; WWF, the conservation charity; and a private businessman.
German environmentalists argue the film's message - that urgent global action is needed to manage climate change - is more appropriate in the US than in Germany, where campaigning about global warming has been under way for decades.
Sigmar Gabriel, environment minister and a trained teacher, counters that detailed awareness of the issues is modest in Germany.
"The film is good because it gives both information but also stirs emotions."
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
By Hugh Williamson
Published: March 12 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 12 2007 02:00
Germany is this week building on its reputation as an advocate of environmental causes through an ambitious public education campaign, distributing to schools 6,000 free copies of a prize-winning documentary byAl Gore, the former US vice-president, writes Hugh Williamson in Berlin.
The Oscar-winning film, An Inconvenient Truth, will be shown to 5,000 teachers next Sunday in special cinema screenings in 27 German cities.A DVD copy will then be sent to schools to be watched by children aged nine and upwards. The scheme is being run by the environment ministry; WWF, the conservation charity; and a private businessman.
German environmentalists argue the film's message - that urgent global action is needed to manage climate change - is more appropriate in the US than in Germany, where campaigning about global warming has been under way for decades.
Sigmar Gabriel, environment minister and a trained teacher, counters that detailed awareness of the issues is modest in Germany.
"The film is good because it gives both information but also stirs emotions."
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Saturday, March 10, 2007
FT.com / World / Asia-Pacific - Germany steps up Afghanistan force
FT.com / World / Asia-Pacific - Germany steps up Afghanistan force
By Hugh Williamson
Published: March 10 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 10 2007 02:00
German lawmakers voted to send at least six military aircraft and 500 extra soldiers to Afghanistan, overcoming public misgivings that German peacekeepers were being sucked into the US-led war with the Taliban.Hugh Williamson, Berlin
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
By Hugh Williamson
Published: March 10 2007 02:00 | Last updated: March 10 2007 02:00
German lawmakers voted to send at least six military aircraft and 500 extra soldiers to Afghanistan, overcoming public misgivings that German peacekeepers were being sucked into the US-led war with the Taliban.Hugh Williamson, Berlin
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Friday, March 09, 2007
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Bundestag stimmt zu: Die Rente mit 67 ist sicher
Bund - Politik - FAZ.NET - Bundestag stimmt zu: Die Rente mit 67 ist sicher
09. März 2007
Die „Rente mit 67“ ist beschlossen. Der Bundestag verabschiedete am Freitag mit den Stimmen der großen Koalition die Heraufsetzung der Altersgrenzen bei der Rente und flankierende Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Beschäftigung älterer Arbeitnehmer. FDP, Grüne und Linke stimmten gegen das Gesetzespaket von Bundessozialminister Franz Müntefering (SPD), aber auch aus den Regierungsfraktionen kamen Gegenstimmen.
09. März 2007
Die „Rente mit 67“ ist beschlossen. Der Bundestag verabschiedete am Freitag mit den Stimmen der großen Koalition die Heraufsetzung der Altersgrenzen bei der Rente und flankierende Maßnahmen zur Verbesserung der Beschäftigung älterer Arbeitnehmer. FDP, Grüne und Linke stimmten gegen das Gesetzespaket von Bundessozialminister Franz Müntefering (SPD), aber auch aus den Regierungsfraktionen kamen Gegenstimmen.
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Bundestag beschließt Rente mit 67
FTD.de - Deutschland - Nachrichten - Bundestag beschließt Rente mit 67
Die umstrittene Gesetz zur Anhebung des Renteneintrittsalters auf 67 Jahre hat den Bundestag passiert. Die Opposition sprach von einem "Etikettenschwindel". Aber auch aus dem Regierungslager gab es Gegenstimmen.
Die umstrittene Gesetz zur Anhebung des Renteneintrittsalters auf 67 Jahre hat den Bundestag passiert. Die Opposition sprach von einem "Etikettenschwindel". Aber auch aus dem Regierungslager gab es Gegenstimmen.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
FT.com / World - Interview transcript: Angela Merkel
FT.com / World - Interview transcript: Angela Merkel
Interview transcript: Angela Merkel
Published: March 6 2007 22:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 22:04
Angela Merkel talked to the Financial Times at her office in Berlin on Monday 5 March. Here are excerpts from the interview on key themes.
On climate change:
Our pledge is to reduce carbon emissions by 20 per cent unilaterally until a global, post-2012 agreement is concluded. Our negotiating position for the post-Kyoto talks is a reduction objective of 30 per cent, which would be binding when it becomes part of an international agreement. Our biofuel target is a binding commitment we are making within the EU.
There is also a general agreement that we should aim for 20 per cent renewable energy [as a proportion of all energy produced]. If we call the biofuels target binding, it would seem reasonable, without prejudging the outcome of the summit, if the renewables target were binding too.
This is the first step in our climate strategy. Of course, there will be further negotiations about national burden-sharing commitments. Kyoto was no different. We first agreed on an 8 per cent reduction target for the EU, and we then decided which member states would have to contribute what shares of the whole. The issue of burden-sharing will be mentioned in the summit’s conclusions.
When can these burden-sharing agreements be reached?
We will do this in steps. First, we will ensure that the post-Kyoto talks get under way this autumn. This will require clear political signals from the leaders of the key countries. We want to use our G8 presidency in particular; our outreach programme with China, India, Mexico, Brazil and South-Africa can help us to sound out the general readiness to act.
We are getting encouraging signals from the US and China. This will lay the groundwork for the environment ministers when they meet this autumn in Bali at the end of the year. Of course, a post-Kyoto agreement will not come this year. Early negotiations are helpful but we will need one or two years at least.
In qualitative terms, [the EU’s] commitment on greenhouse gas reduction will put Europe at the forefront internationally. It is a strong signal that the member states have agreed to make these pledges.
We will try to feed these commitments into the work and the conclusions of the G8 summit in Heiligendamm... There are three issues we need to discuss in Heiligendamm. First, we must reach a common understanding of the risks associated with climate change. We in the EU think we should do all we can to prevent a rise in average temperatures beyond two degrees. We will see where other G8 members stand on this.
Then we must talk about what mechanisms can be used to put a price on carbon emissions, such as certificates as we have them in Europe and in some American states, and we must talk about a process whereby such a system could be made to work at an international level. Personally, I think tradable emission certificates are the most sensible instrument to reduce CO2 emissions, and a very market-friendly one.
The third issue is that of innovation and technology, because we will not achieve our targets with today’s technologies.
It won’t be easy, but that’s why the EU should make commitments now and take this pioneering position.
Can you get the big developing states on board?
We see a developing consciousness, in China for instance. The key now will be to decouple this growth from energy consumption, which is something Europe has already achieved.
Do you foresee one world-wide price for carbon?
The first step is to set up regional systems [for carbon-trading]. These would put different prices on carbon emissions. Long term, experts suggest we should have a worldwide certificates market, which would imply one price.
Today, Europe generates 15 per cent of total CO2 emissions. The considerable investments we want to make in developing cleaner technologies are justified if these technologies are going to be implemented elsewhere, especially countries that cannot afford to develop high-tech solutions of their own.
We feel a responsibility to act as pioneers, but it only makes sense if we bring others on board. We cannot address such a global challenge on our own.
Why has climate change gained such urgency?
For a while, the issue receded into the background because we had the Kyoto protocol, many governments were still missing conclusive scientific evidence, and because the market for resources was not as tight as it is today. Now we have alarming reports from the scientific community on global warming and energy policy has climbed up the political agenda, given the price of oil and gas and what it actually means for large industrial nations to be dependent on imported energy.
The necessity to combat climate change and to reduce our energy dependency, coupled with the fact that Kyoto is now running out, have concentrated minds. Energy has become a strategic issue. It is interesting that 50 years after the signing of the Rome Treaty this question of energy should come to the fore again. We are again beginning to think about energy policy as a European issue.
This is a new step. It means Europe is discussing what used to be an exclusively national policy area. We are convinced the innovation push must come from Europe. Otherwise the 20 per cent [target for CO2 reduction] won’t save the world. These goals, this big effort we are undertaking, only make sense if they give us an economic and technological advantage that will also benefit the rest of the world.
We made a choice: We could have muddled through and looked away because it was not clear what the cost [of climate change] was going to be. Instead, we decided to act under the assumption that, whatever happens, the cost of inaction will be higher. This, as made clear by the Stern report, is the main paradigm change.
On ‘onbundling’ EU energy:
I’m in favour of competition. It is a precondition for an efficient European energy policy. I’m also in favour of creating the infrastructure for this competition to take place, for instance by setting up interconnectors.
But unbundling is a different issue. We have many traditions in Europe. Fourteen member states already have unbundling, others like Germany have a different tradition.
I do not think the issue of competition can be reduced to the unbundling question. Stripping the energy producers of their networks is no guarantee that there will be more competition. What you need is a strong regulatory system to enhance competition and the right incentives to invest. In some countries, the separation of rail services and networks did not exactly improve the network’s quality.
On foreign policy and energy:
We must create the preconditions for energy solidarity, which means for instance having pipelines that do not just go from east to west. But it’s difficult because states do not sign these contracts, companies do. It’s not for us to decide who their customers should be.
[On the Baltic gas pipeline from Russia to Germany] It must be clear to our Russian partner that the EU stands together on this and will not accept individual member states being treated differently [in terms of which EU countries receive Russian gas from the pipeline].
[On the EU constitution] For the first time, the constitutional treaty [if endorsed by member states] will bring elements of energy policy into the remit of the EU. What we are doing now at the summit [starting on Thursday] anticipates this. And this additional competence is very much in everyone’s interest, and especially in the interest of those countries that are dependent on outside energy suppliers. That’s the case for Poland, the Baltic states, Slovakia or Germany.
[On Russian attempts to invest in strategic western industries] EU member states are observing Russia’s policy and its legislation regarding foreign investments in strategic areas. After an extensive round of privatisations, the state is extending its influence again.
It is understandable to a degree. Most resource-rich countries exercise tight state control over their resources. But the relationship between the EU and Russia must be one of transparency and reciprocity. The EU will keep a close eye on whether Russia allows foreign investors to own majority control of strategic industrial assets, and that applies not just to the energy sector. Then the EU should do the same when it comes to Russian investments in what we consider strategic areas.
We watch the lawmakers in the Duma closely. If only 20 per cent of such a [Russian] company can be in foreign hands, then we should consider the same approach. ... What we expect from Russia is reliability. Other than that I have no problem if it wants partnerships in Europe and not just to be a supplier of raw materials.
[On the Berlin Declaration] It will be different from a council conclusion in that it should actually be readable by the wider public, the people. It will be short and it will not seek to solve the question of the constitutional treaty that will be on the table in June. It will be about the challenges we face, not the solutions.
I do not intend to make Berlin the place for these talks, these difficult talks that await us in June. This is not the intention. The intention is to tell the people what we achieved together, what we can be proud of, and what challenges we face.
Will the declaration mention the euro? There are domains of reinforced cooperation, for instance in the eurozone or in the Shengen area, that are very much part of the reality of the EU.
On the European social model:
This is a puzzling discussion to me. In Germany, we have the social market economy. The distinction some people make between the economic and the social dimensions is something that is alien to this concept.
Regardless of how member states put the European model into practice, there is a broad cultural agreement on how democratic societies in Europe treat their citizens. We all have trade unions, we all have some form of codetermination, and we have political parties that put a different emphasis on the economic or the social components. That’s our common bandwidth.
The fact that economic growth is not an end in itself, that all should be able to share in the prosperity, it is all part of this common ground.
On protectionism:
It should be no surprise that [cross-border takeovers] are easier in the engineering or the pharmaceutical industries than they are in the utilities sector. Many EU member states have a long tradition of state involvement in the energy market.
The single market is making headway into what many people would still consider state prerogatives. Whether a certain type of machine is being built in Germany, that’s not a matter for the state. Whether all citizens have access to electricity, to postal services, or can find a petrol station close to home, that requires a degree of oversight or certain guarantees. There is a certain tension, something we must keep talking about.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Interview transcript: Angela Merkel
Published: March 6 2007 22:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 22:04
Angela Merkel talked to the Financial Times at her office in Berlin on Monday 5 March. Here are excerpts from the interview on key themes.
On climate change:
Our pledge is to reduce carbon emissions by 20 per cent unilaterally until a global, post-2012 agreement is concluded. Our negotiating position for the post-Kyoto talks is a reduction objective of 30 per cent, which would be binding when it becomes part of an international agreement. Our biofuel target is a binding commitment we are making within the EU.
There is also a general agreement that we should aim for 20 per cent renewable energy [as a proportion of all energy produced]. If we call the biofuels target binding, it would seem reasonable, without prejudging the outcome of the summit, if the renewables target were binding too.
This is the first step in our climate strategy. Of course, there will be further negotiations about national burden-sharing commitments. Kyoto was no different. We first agreed on an 8 per cent reduction target for the EU, and we then decided which member states would have to contribute what shares of the whole. The issue of burden-sharing will be mentioned in the summit’s conclusions.
When can these burden-sharing agreements be reached?
We will do this in steps. First, we will ensure that the post-Kyoto talks get under way this autumn. This will require clear political signals from the leaders of the key countries. We want to use our G8 presidency in particular; our outreach programme with China, India, Mexico, Brazil and South-Africa can help us to sound out the general readiness to act.
We are getting encouraging signals from the US and China. This will lay the groundwork for the environment ministers when they meet this autumn in Bali at the end of the year. Of course, a post-Kyoto agreement will not come this year. Early negotiations are helpful but we will need one or two years at least.
In qualitative terms, [the EU’s] commitment on greenhouse gas reduction will put Europe at the forefront internationally. It is a strong signal that the member states have agreed to make these pledges.
We will try to feed these commitments into the work and the conclusions of the G8 summit in Heiligendamm... There are three issues we need to discuss in Heiligendamm. First, we must reach a common understanding of the risks associated with climate change. We in the EU think we should do all we can to prevent a rise in average temperatures beyond two degrees. We will see where other G8 members stand on this.
Then we must talk about what mechanisms can be used to put a price on carbon emissions, such as certificates as we have them in Europe and in some American states, and we must talk about a process whereby such a system could be made to work at an international level. Personally, I think tradable emission certificates are the most sensible instrument to reduce CO2 emissions, and a very market-friendly one.
The third issue is that of innovation and technology, because we will not achieve our targets with today’s technologies.
It won’t be easy, but that’s why the EU should make commitments now and take this pioneering position.
Can you get the big developing states on board?
We see a developing consciousness, in China for instance. The key now will be to decouple this growth from energy consumption, which is something Europe has already achieved.
Do you foresee one world-wide price for carbon?
The first step is to set up regional systems [for carbon-trading]. These would put different prices on carbon emissions. Long term, experts suggest we should have a worldwide certificates market, which would imply one price.
Today, Europe generates 15 per cent of total CO2 emissions. The considerable investments we want to make in developing cleaner technologies are justified if these technologies are going to be implemented elsewhere, especially countries that cannot afford to develop high-tech solutions of their own.
We feel a responsibility to act as pioneers, but it only makes sense if we bring others on board. We cannot address such a global challenge on our own.
Why has climate change gained such urgency?
For a while, the issue receded into the background because we had the Kyoto protocol, many governments were still missing conclusive scientific evidence, and because the market for resources was not as tight as it is today. Now we have alarming reports from the scientific community on global warming and energy policy has climbed up the political agenda, given the price of oil and gas and what it actually means for large industrial nations to be dependent on imported energy.
The necessity to combat climate change and to reduce our energy dependency, coupled with the fact that Kyoto is now running out, have concentrated minds. Energy has become a strategic issue. It is interesting that 50 years after the signing of the Rome Treaty this question of energy should come to the fore again. We are again beginning to think about energy policy as a European issue.
This is a new step. It means Europe is discussing what used to be an exclusively national policy area. We are convinced the innovation push must come from Europe. Otherwise the 20 per cent [target for CO2 reduction] won’t save the world. These goals, this big effort we are undertaking, only make sense if they give us an economic and technological advantage that will also benefit the rest of the world.
We made a choice: We could have muddled through and looked away because it was not clear what the cost [of climate change] was going to be. Instead, we decided to act under the assumption that, whatever happens, the cost of inaction will be higher. This, as made clear by the Stern report, is the main paradigm change.
On ‘onbundling’ EU energy:
I’m in favour of competition. It is a precondition for an efficient European energy policy. I’m also in favour of creating the infrastructure for this competition to take place, for instance by setting up interconnectors.
But unbundling is a different issue. We have many traditions in Europe. Fourteen member states already have unbundling, others like Germany have a different tradition.
I do not think the issue of competition can be reduced to the unbundling question. Stripping the energy producers of their networks is no guarantee that there will be more competition. What you need is a strong regulatory system to enhance competition and the right incentives to invest. In some countries, the separation of rail services and networks did not exactly improve the network’s quality.
On foreign policy and energy:
We must create the preconditions for energy solidarity, which means for instance having pipelines that do not just go from east to west. But it’s difficult because states do not sign these contracts, companies do. It’s not for us to decide who their customers should be.
[On the Baltic gas pipeline from Russia to Germany] It must be clear to our Russian partner that the EU stands together on this and will not accept individual member states being treated differently [in terms of which EU countries receive Russian gas from the pipeline].
[On the EU constitution] For the first time, the constitutional treaty [if endorsed by member states] will bring elements of energy policy into the remit of the EU. What we are doing now at the summit [starting on Thursday] anticipates this. And this additional competence is very much in everyone’s interest, and especially in the interest of those countries that are dependent on outside energy suppliers. That’s the case for Poland, the Baltic states, Slovakia or Germany.
[On Russian attempts to invest in strategic western industries] EU member states are observing Russia’s policy and its legislation regarding foreign investments in strategic areas. After an extensive round of privatisations, the state is extending its influence again.
It is understandable to a degree. Most resource-rich countries exercise tight state control over their resources. But the relationship between the EU and Russia must be one of transparency and reciprocity. The EU will keep a close eye on whether Russia allows foreign investors to own majority control of strategic industrial assets, and that applies not just to the energy sector. Then the EU should do the same when it comes to Russian investments in what we consider strategic areas.
We watch the lawmakers in the Duma closely. If only 20 per cent of such a [Russian] company can be in foreign hands, then we should consider the same approach. ... What we expect from Russia is reliability. Other than that I have no problem if it wants partnerships in Europe and not just to be a supplier of raw materials.
[On the Berlin Declaration] It will be different from a council conclusion in that it should actually be readable by the wider public, the people. It will be short and it will not seek to solve the question of the constitutional treaty that will be on the table in June. It will be about the challenges we face, not the solutions.
I do not intend to make Berlin the place for these talks, these difficult talks that await us in June. This is not the intention. The intention is to tell the people what we achieved together, what we can be proud of, and what challenges we face.
Will the declaration mention the euro? There are domains of reinforced cooperation, for instance in the eurozone or in the Shengen area, that are very much part of the reality of the EU.
On the European social model:
This is a puzzling discussion to me. In Germany, we have the social market economy. The distinction some people make between the economic and the social dimensions is something that is alien to this concept.
Regardless of how member states put the European model into practice, there is a broad cultural agreement on how democratic societies in Europe treat their citizens. We all have trade unions, we all have some form of codetermination, and we have political parties that put a different emphasis on the economic or the social components. That’s our common bandwidth.
The fact that economic growth is not an end in itself, that all should be able to share in the prosperity, it is all part of this common ground.
On protectionism:
It should be no surprise that [cross-border takeovers] are easier in the engineering or the pharmaceutical industries than they are in the utilities sector. Many EU member states have a long tradition of state involvement in the energy market.
The single market is making headway into what many people would still consider state prerogatives. Whether a certain type of machine is being built in Germany, that’s not a matter for the state. Whether all citizens have access to electricity, to postal services, or can find a petrol station close to home, that requires a degree of oversight or certain guarantees. There is a certain tension, something we must keep talking about.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
FT.com / World / Europe - Merkel to press for EU deal on climate
FT.com / World / Europe - Merkel to press for EU deal on climate
Merkel to press for EU deal on climate
By Bertrand Benoit, Hugh Williamson and Frederick Studemann in Berlin
Published: March 6 2007 22:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 22:04
A European deal on cutting carbon emissions will be the first of a number of potentially painful steps for European Union nations in the fight to tackle global warming, Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, has warned.
In an interview with the Financial Times ahead of Thursday’s EU summit – the first under this year’s German presidency – Ms Merkel said she wanted Europe to take a “pioneering lead” on meaningful green initiatives.
She said she expected a commitment by the bloc’s 27 member states to cut CO2 emissions by 20 per cent of their 1990 level by 2020 to be just the starting gun for a round of difficult negotiations that would “put Europe at the forefront internationally”.
“There will be further negotiations about national burden-sharing commitments. Kyoto was no different,” said the chancellor, who, as environment minister, was Germany’s lead negotiator for the Kyoto accord in the 1990s. “The necessity to combat climate change and to reduce our energy dependency, coupled with the fact that Kyoto is now running out, have concentrated minds.”
She also conceded that Berlin had yet to overcome the scepticism of a dozen governments, led by France, which oppose a binding obligation to raise the share of renewable resources in Europe’s energy mix to 20 per cent by 2020.
This is the most controversial of three subordinated pledges underpinning the broader emissions commitment – including goals on biofuels and energy saving measures – that the European Commission has put forward for the summit.
Taking the lead on climate change would also have economic advantages as it would create the necessary incentives for European industry to develop “cleaner technologies” that could then be exported.
With Germany also chairing the Group of Eight industrial nations this year, Ms Merkel wants to feed the conclusions of this week’s council meeting into the agenda of the G8 summit in June.
Her long-term goal is a post-Kyoto agreement that includes a global version of Europe’s carbon trading scheme. However, French proposals to tax imports judged to have been made under questionable environmental conditions were met with scepticism.
On the proposed “unbundling” of Europe’s energy sector, she said she expected backing for a compromise solution that stopped short of separating generating and distribution networks.
“Stripping the energy producers of their networks is no guarantee that there will be more competition.”
Ms Merkel will also use this week’s summit to present her plan for the “Berlin declaration” to be published on March 25 when the EU celebrates 50 years of the Rome Treaty, its founding document.
She said the text, which will highlight the EU’s achievements and future challenges to ordinary citizens, would be short and “actually be readable” – unlike many official EU documents.
While the declaration will avoid mentioning the stalled constitutional treaty, she reaffirmed Berlin’s position – opposed by the UK – that the document should mention the euro.
“There are domains of reinforced co-operation, for instance in the eurozone or in the Shengen area, that are very much part of the reality of the EU.”
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Merkel to press for EU deal on climate
By Bertrand Benoit, Hugh Williamson and Frederick Studemann in Berlin
Published: March 6 2007 22:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 22:04
A European deal on cutting carbon emissions will be the first of a number of potentially painful steps for European Union nations in the fight to tackle global warming, Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, has warned.
In an interview with the Financial Times ahead of Thursday’s EU summit – the first under this year’s German presidency – Ms Merkel said she wanted Europe to take a “pioneering lead” on meaningful green initiatives.
She said she expected a commitment by the bloc’s 27 member states to cut CO2 emissions by 20 per cent of their 1990 level by 2020 to be just the starting gun for a round of difficult negotiations that would “put Europe at the forefront internationally”.
“There will be further negotiations about national burden-sharing commitments. Kyoto was no different,” said the chancellor, who, as environment minister, was Germany’s lead negotiator for the Kyoto accord in the 1990s. “The necessity to combat climate change and to reduce our energy dependency, coupled with the fact that Kyoto is now running out, have concentrated minds.”
She also conceded that Berlin had yet to overcome the scepticism of a dozen governments, led by France, which oppose a binding obligation to raise the share of renewable resources in Europe’s energy mix to 20 per cent by 2020.
This is the most controversial of three subordinated pledges underpinning the broader emissions commitment – including goals on biofuels and energy saving measures – that the European Commission has put forward for the summit.
Taking the lead on climate change would also have economic advantages as it would create the necessary incentives for European industry to develop “cleaner technologies” that could then be exported.
With Germany also chairing the Group of Eight industrial nations this year, Ms Merkel wants to feed the conclusions of this week’s council meeting into the agenda of the G8 summit in June.
Her long-term goal is a post-Kyoto agreement that includes a global version of Europe’s carbon trading scheme. However, French proposals to tax imports judged to have been made under questionable environmental conditions were met with scepticism.
On the proposed “unbundling” of Europe’s energy sector, she said she expected backing for a compromise solution that stopped short of separating generating and distribution networks.
“Stripping the energy producers of their networks is no guarantee that there will be more competition.”
Ms Merkel will also use this week’s summit to present her plan for the “Berlin declaration” to be published on March 25 when the EU celebrates 50 years of the Rome Treaty, its founding document.
She said the text, which will highlight the EU’s achievements and future challenges to ordinary citizens, would be short and “actually be readable” – unlike many official EU documents.
While the declaration will avoid mentioning the stalled constitutional treaty, she reaffirmed Berlin’s position – opposed by the UK – that the document should mention the euro.
“There are domains of reinforced co-operation, for instance in the eurozone or in the Shengen area, that are very much part of the reality of the EU.”
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
FT.com / Comment & analysis / Editorial comment - Germany’s chancellor is showing a sure touch in Europe
FT.com / Comment & analysis / Editorial comment - Germany’s chancellor is showing a sure touch in Europe
Germany’s chancellor is showing a sure touch in Europe
Published: March 6 2007 22:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 22:04
When Angela Merkel, Germany’s chancellor, took over the chair of the European Council on January 1, she was anxious not to raise any exaggerated expectations about what she could achieve in the six-month presidency of the European Union. She was also determined to give some sense of purpose back to the EU, after nearly two years of “pausing for reflection” following the Dutch and French No votes to the EU constitutional treaty.
It is still early days to reach a judgment, but partly through luck and partly through sensible pragmatism, the chancellor seems to be getting her way, and presiding over a distinct lightening of Europe’s recent gloom.
This week’s EU spring summit in Brussels looks like being a more productive occasion than in previous years. In addition to taking the temperature of the European economy, and its progress with structural reform, the meeting is likely to make some brave decisions about reducing greenhouse gases, to slow down the pace of global warming. If Mrs Merkel can persuade her fellow leaders to do that, she will have made a very good start on the process of getting global agreement on a post-Kyoto accord in the Group of Eight industrialised nations, whose summit she also chairs in the summer.
One essential element in the improved European atmosphere is the pick-up in economic performance, with Germany itself making a vital contribution. Growth of gross domestic product in the eurozone last year topped 3 per cent, and unemployment declined to an average 7.5 per cent. Germany’s own growth rate of 2.7 per cent may not be stellar in global terms, but it was the most improved member of the zone, and it is once again performing its essential role of locomotive for the rest of the European economy.
Some tough bargaining remains to be done to persuade all 27 EU members to agree on binding targets for greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, backed up by a firm commitment to raise renewable energy production to 20 per cent of the total by the same date. Other difficult decisions, including energy market liberalisation, are being postponed. There are deep differences between EU members on the future role of nuclear energy: Mrs Merkel’s own government is split down the middle on that score. But a clear decision on climate change will be an important signal.
Will it help the chancellor to crack the other tough nut of her EU presidency – to get the constitutional reform process back on track? She wants to save as much of the becalmed constitutional treaty as possible. Others, including Britain’s Tony Blair and France’s Nicolas Sarkozy, frontrunner in the French presidential election, want something much more modest.
Mrs Merkel has already shown that she can be pragmatic. She wants an outcome, not a trainwreck. She is demonstrating the power of quiet persuasion; a vital European quality.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Germany’s chancellor is showing a sure touch in Europe
Published: March 6 2007 22:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 22:04
When Angela Merkel, Germany’s chancellor, took over the chair of the European Council on January 1, she was anxious not to raise any exaggerated expectations about what she could achieve in the six-month presidency of the European Union. She was also determined to give some sense of purpose back to the EU, after nearly two years of “pausing for reflection” following the Dutch and French No votes to the EU constitutional treaty.
It is still early days to reach a judgment, but partly through luck and partly through sensible pragmatism, the chancellor seems to be getting her way, and presiding over a distinct lightening of Europe’s recent gloom.
This week’s EU spring summit in Brussels looks like being a more productive occasion than in previous years. In addition to taking the temperature of the European economy, and its progress with structural reform, the meeting is likely to make some brave decisions about reducing greenhouse gases, to slow down the pace of global warming. If Mrs Merkel can persuade her fellow leaders to do that, she will have made a very good start on the process of getting global agreement on a post-Kyoto accord in the Group of Eight industrialised nations, whose summit she also chairs in the summer.
One essential element in the improved European atmosphere is the pick-up in economic performance, with Germany itself making a vital contribution. Growth of gross domestic product in the eurozone last year topped 3 per cent, and unemployment declined to an average 7.5 per cent. Germany’s own growth rate of 2.7 per cent may not be stellar in global terms, but it was the most improved member of the zone, and it is once again performing its essential role of locomotive for the rest of the European economy.
Some tough bargaining remains to be done to persuade all 27 EU members to agree on binding targets for greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, backed up by a firm commitment to raise renewable energy production to 20 per cent of the total by the same date. Other difficult decisions, including energy market liberalisation, are being postponed. There are deep differences between EU members on the future role of nuclear energy: Mrs Merkel’s own government is split down the middle on that score. But a clear decision on climate change will be an important signal.
Will it help the chancellor to crack the other tough nut of her EU presidency – to get the constitutional reform process back on track? She wants to save as much of the becalmed constitutional treaty as possible. Others, including Britain’s Tony Blair and France’s Nicolas Sarkozy, frontrunner in the French presidential election, want something much more modest.
Mrs Merkel has already shown that she can be pragmatic. She wants an outcome, not a trainwreck. She is demonstrating the power of quiet persuasion; a vital European quality.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
FT.com / Comment & analysis / Comment - Germany must stop shirking a debate on its military
FT.com / Comment & analysis / Comment - Germany must stop shirking a debate on its military
Germany must stop shirking a debate on its military
By Timo Nötzel and Benjamin Schreer
Published: March 6 2007 17:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 17:04
This week the German parliament will vote on whether Tornado reconnaissance (Recce) aircraft should be sent to Afghanistan in support of the Nato-commanded International Security Assistance Force. The deployment is expected to be approved.
Decisions to send German troops abroad are – following engagements in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Congo and Lebanon – no longer a source of contention in domestic politics. The issue is rather whether Germany is prepared to let its armed forces join in combat operations. So far, the government has avoided confronting this issue directly.
The situation of the German armed forces is anomalous. The government seems to be giving in, piecemeal, to Nato allies’ demands for more German support for combat operations in southern Afghanistan. If the deployment of the “Recce” Tornados is approved, they will be put under direct command of the Isaf commander. The government has agreed to strengthen the commander’s powers so that he can call for German troops to operate in the south in case of need. The German army will also soon deploy one of its finest airborne brigades to Afghanistan, trained for irregular warfare. Finally, Franz-Josef Jung, defence minister, has indicated that he is prepared to once again send special operations forces to support the allies’ fight in the south.
At the same time, German politicians continue to insist that the Bundeswehr’s role in Afghanistan remains limited to combat support. This has created an odd situation: legally, the government has committed itself to participation in Isaf combat operations if need be; militarily, it will have the troops in place to conduct such tasks; politically, however, it is not prepared publicly to make the case for such operations.
This is the result of a particular German constellation. In recent years different German governments have reclaimed the right to use military power as an integral part of national foreign and security policy. However, a domestic debate about the purposes for which military power can legitimately be used has still not taken place. As a result forces are deployed abroad but are in effect tied down to defensive postures by national concerns.
The problem now is that Germany’s allies are increasingly reluctant to accept these caveats. They make the case that alliance solidarity and cohesion requires equal burden-sharing. In short, they expect the German government to acknowledge that the alliance as a whole is at war against the Taliban and to act accordingly.
Yet the government still shirks away from an honest domestic debate about an expanded military role in Afghanistan. Instead, it emphasises the need for an “integrated civil-military strategy”. The argument is that the war cannot be won militarily but that it must be won by stronger state-building efforts, ie by civilian means.
This ignores the fact that without a stable security environment, efforts to stabilise and rebuild this devastated country are bound to fail. Nato therefore has no choice but to take the fight to the Taliban and prevent it from taking control of the south. Last summer Nato learnt in Operation Medusa that the Taliban has regained the ability to mount serious military engagements. Currently, there is every indication that the Taliban is reorganising and re-equipping for a spring offensive. In this situation to call for an enhanced “civil-military” approach but to refuse to participate in offensive combat operations is increasingly untenable. The government has put the German armed forces into a position where they are going to have little choice but to participate directly in combat operations if the situation further escalates in the south. It has, however, not prepared the German public either for this eventuality or for its likely consequences, which would be the deaths of German soldiers.
Angela Merkel, chancellor, has to prepare public and parliament for the probability that German land forces will be drawn into Nato combat operations in Afghanistan if Isaf comes under sustained pressure in the south.
In sum, the decision to deploy Tornado aircraft to Afghanistan will not relieve the government from the liability of adjusting further to the changing Isaf operation. Germany needs to continue to press for more coherence of civilian and military efforts. However, only by recognising that military power is a fundamental part of strategy can Germany have significant and effective influence on Nato strategy.
The writers are research fellows at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) in Berlin
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Germany must stop shirking a debate on its military
By Timo Nötzel and Benjamin Schreer
Published: March 6 2007 17:04 Last updated: March 6 2007 17:04
This week the German parliament will vote on whether Tornado reconnaissance (Recce) aircraft should be sent to Afghanistan in support of the Nato-commanded International Security Assistance Force. The deployment is expected to be approved.
Decisions to send German troops abroad are – following engagements in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Congo and Lebanon – no longer a source of contention in domestic politics. The issue is rather whether Germany is prepared to let its armed forces join in combat operations. So far, the government has avoided confronting this issue directly.
The situation of the German armed forces is anomalous. The government seems to be giving in, piecemeal, to Nato allies’ demands for more German support for combat operations in southern Afghanistan. If the deployment of the “Recce” Tornados is approved, they will be put under direct command of the Isaf commander. The government has agreed to strengthen the commander’s powers so that he can call for German troops to operate in the south in case of need. The German army will also soon deploy one of its finest airborne brigades to Afghanistan, trained for irregular warfare. Finally, Franz-Josef Jung, defence minister, has indicated that he is prepared to once again send special operations forces to support the allies’ fight in the south.
At the same time, German politicians continue to insist that the Bundeswehr’s role in Afghanistan remains limited to combat support. This has created an odd situation: legally, the government has committed itself to participation in Isaf combat operations if need be; militarily, it will have the troops in place to conduct such tasks; politically, however, it is not prepared publicly to make the case for such operations.
This is the result of a particular German constellation. In recent years different German governments have reclaimed the right to use military power as an integral part of national foreign and security policy. However, a domestic debate about the purposes for which military power can legitimately be used has still not taken place. As a result forces are deployed abroad but are in effect tied down to defensive postures by national concerns.
The problem now is that Germany’s allies are increasingly reluctant to accept these caveats. They make the case that alliance solidarity and cohesion requires equal burden-sharing. In short, they expect the German government to acknowledge that the alliance as a whole is at war against the Taliban and to act accordingly.
Yet the government still shirks away from an honest domestic debate about an expanded military role in Afghanistan. Instead, it emphasises the need for an “integrated civil-military strategy”. The argument is that the war cannot be won militarily but that it must be won by stronger state-building efforts, ie by civilian means.
This ignores the fact that without a stable security environment, efforts to stabilise and rebuild this devastated country are bound to fail. Nato therefore has no choice but to take the fight to the Taliban and prevent it from taking control of the south. Last summer Nato learnt in Operation Medusa that the Taliban has regained the ability to mount serious military engagements. Currently, there is every indication that the Taliban is reorganising and re-equipping for a spring offensive. In this situation to call for an enhanced “civil-military” approach but to refuse to participate in offensive combat operations is increasingly untenable. The government has put the German armed forces into a position where they are going to have little choice but to participate directly in combat operations if the situation further escalates in the south. It has, however, not prepared the German public either for this eventuality or for its likely consequences, which would be the deaths of German soldiers.
Angela Merkel, chancellor, has to prepare public and parliament for the probability that German land forces will be drawn into Nato combat operations in Afghanistan if Isaf comes under sustained pressure in the south.
In sum, the decision to deploy Tornado aircraft to Afghanistan will not relieve the government from the liability of adjusting further to the changing Isaf operation. Germany needs to continue to press for more coherence of civilian and military efforts. However, only by recognising that military power is a fundamental part of strategy can Germany have significant and effective influence on Nato strategy.
The writers are research fellows at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) in Berlin
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Sunday, March 04, 2007
FT.com / Columnists / Wolfgang Munchau - Germany must import some fresh thinking
FT.com / Columnists / Wolfgang Munchau - Germany must import some fresh thinking
The eurozone had an extraordinarily good performance in the second half of 2006. But how well is it going to perform at a time of financial turbulence, of the kind we saw last week?
Let me try to answer this question for Germany, which is currently popular among global investors. The general story is that Germany has overcome its unification shock, improved cost competitiveness and undertaken politically difficult reforms that are finally paying off in terms of higher economic growth and lower unemployment.
I would treat this fashionable analysis with caution. It is true that the internal dynamic of Germany’s economy is strong, much stronger than most forecasters, including myself, had predicted. It is also true that German companies have cut jobs and improved cost competitiveness, a strategy from which they are now benefiting. If the global economic environment remains calm, Germany will experience another good year. So one should enjoy this Goldilocks scenario while it lasts, except that it may not last very long. The problem is not the strength of the recovery as such but Germany’s feeble resistance to external shocks.
Germany is the world’s third largest economy, but the largest exporter. Germans take pride in their status as export world champion, a curious title that erroneously suggests that an export surplus is a measure of economic success. Germany’s export strength also makes it export-dependent and vulnerable to a downturn in global demand. While Germany is good at producing highly specialised niche products for its export markets, its structural weaknesses have not changed: an underdeveloped financial sector with a relatively low degree of financial innovation; and poor services.
Economic theory suggests that a country faced with a fall in demand for its export goods should seek to shift economic activity from the external sector to the domestic sector. The reason why Germany is not good at this has been the one-sided focus of economic reform: labour market reforms with a view to the competitiveness of the export sector. While they have achieved their goal, they have not increased flexibility and thus left the domestic sector as weak as ever. Now, it is true that a competitiveness-based strategy is better than no strategy at all. You may euphemistically call it a second-best strategy. It surely contributed to the present recovery. But it is the lack of flexibility that will end it prematurely.
Eric Chaney, chief economist for Europe at Morgan Stanley, has done some interesting calculations on the effects of a cocktail of external shocks on the eurozone as a whole: a credit crunch in the US, a contraction in Chinese exports and a further sell-off in equity markets. While each one of those would not hurt the eurozone particularly badly, all three together could shave off between 0.5 and 0.9 per cent of gross domestic product.
I have heard some economists argue that Germany would be in a better position than France to withstand any global shocks, given Germany’s recent improvements in competitiveness. I disagree. Germany’s economic strategy is far more dependent on a friendly global economic macroeconomic and financial environment – precisely the kind of environment that was called into question last week. France may be suffering from a deteriorating export performance, but at least France still manages to generate a decent rate of domestic demand.
The Morgan Stanley calculation is, in fact, not even a worst-case scenario. For that you would need to add a big rise in the trade-weighted exchange rate of the euro.
So how real are these alarmist scenarios? Last week, we saw a taste of how quickly the markets’ euphoria can turn. While Alan Greenspan, former chairman of the Federal Reserve, did not forecast a recession, the mere fact that he used the word is remarkable. As I predicted in my New Year outlook on the global economy, there is a non-trivial, though incalculable risk of a recession in the US and a fairly significant probability of a hard landing. I am aware that the Fed’s forecasting model strongly favours a soft landing. I just cannot see how such a sharp and persistent downturn in housing, combined with the present carnage in the subprime mortgage market, will have only a minimal effect on economic growth – especially in a year when the global credit bubble is relatively likely to burst at some point.
Nor do I share the view that the world could decouple from the US, for the simple reason that any distress in the US will transmit to the rest of the world economy via the financial markets. Direct trade has long ceased to be the main transmission mechanism of transatlantic shocks, at least for the UK and the eurozone.
A global economic downturn, possibly accompanied by falling equity prices, a reappraisal of credit risk and a shift in the euro/dollar exchange rate, would leave the export-dependent economies in the eurozone, Germany and Italy in particular, in a tight spot. In the short run, monetary policy can help the eurozone to alleviate those problems. In the long run, its governments may have to confront an uncomfortable category of economic reforms that they have been able to avoid with some success: the reform of their corporatist systems, the ultimate cause of their economic inflexibility. This is an environment in which cutting costs is not going to cut it any longer.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
The eurozone had an extraordinarily good performance in the second half of 2006. But how well is it going to perform at a time of financial turbulence, of the kind we saw last week?
Let me try to answer this question for Germany, which is currently popular among global investors. The general story is that Germany has overcome its unification shock, improved cost competitiveness and undertaken politically difficult reforms that are finally paying off in terms of higher economic growth and lower unemployment.
I would treat this fashionable analysis with caution. It is true that the internal dynamic of Germany’s economy is strong, much stronger than most forecasters, including myself, had predicted. It is also true that German companies have cut jobs and improved cost competitiveness, a strategy from which they are now benefiting. If the global economic environment remains calm, Germany will experience another good year. So one should enjoy this Goldilocks scenario while it lasts, except that it may not last very long. The problem is not the strength of the recovery as such but Germany’s feeble resistance to external shocks.
Germany is the world’s third largest economy, but the largest exporter. Germans take pride in their status as export world champion, a curious title that erroneously suggests that an export surplus is a measure of economic success. Germany’s export strength also makes it export-dependent and vulnerable to a downturn in global demand. While Germany is good at producing highly specialised niche products for its export markets, its structural weaknesses have not changed: an underdeveloped financial sector with a relatively low degree of financial innovation; and poor services.
Economic theory suggests that a country faced with a fall in demand for its export goods should seek to shift economic activity from the external sector to the domestic sector. The reason why Germany is not good at this has been the one-sided focus of economic reform: labour market reforms with a view to the competitiveness of the export sector. While they have achieved their goal, they have not increased flexibility and thus left the domestic sector as weak as ever. Now, it is true that a competitiveness-based strategy is better than no strategy at all. You may euphemistically call it a second-best strategy. It surely contributed to the present recovery. But it is the lack of flexibility that will end it prematurely.
Eric Chaney, chief economist for Europe at Morgan Stanley, has done some interesting calculations on the effects of a cocktail of external shocks on the eurozone as a whole: a credit crunch in the US, a contraction in Chinese exports and a further sell-off in equity markets. While each one of those would not hurt the eurozone particularly badly, all three together could shave off between 0.5 and 0.9 per cent of gross domestic product.
I have heard some economists argue that Germany would be in a better position than France to withstand any global shocks, given Germany’s recent improvements in competitiveness. I disagree. Germany’s economic strategy is far more dependent on a friendly global economic macroeconomic and financial environment – precisely the kind of environment that was called into question last week. France may be suffering from a deteriorating export performance, but at least France still manages to generate a decent rate of domestic demand.
The Morgan Stanley calculation is, in fact, not even a worst-case scenario. For that you would need to add a big rise in the trade-weighted exchange rate of the euro.
So how real are these alarmist scenarios? Last week, we saw a taste of how quickly the markets’ euphoria can turn. While Alan Greenspan, former chairman of the Federal Reserve, did not forecast a recession, the mere fact that he used the word is remarkable. As I predicted in my New Year outlook on the global economy, there is a non-trivial, though incalculable risk of a recession in the US and a fairly significant probability of a hard landing. I am aware that the Fed’s forecasting model strongly favours a soft landing. I just cannot see how such a sharp and persistent downturn in housing, combined with the present carnage in the subprime mortgage market, will have only a minimal effect on economic growth – especially in a year when the global credit bubble is relatively likely to burst at some point.
Nor do I share the view that the world could decouple from the US, for the simple reason that any distress in the US will transmit to the rest of the world economy via the financial markets. Direct trade has long ceased to be the main transmission mechanism of transatlantic shocks, at least for the UK and the eurozone.
A global economic downturn, possibly accompanied by falling equity prices, a reappraisal of credit risk and a shift in the euro/dollar exchange rate, would leave the export-dependent economies in the eurozone, Germany and Italy in particular, in a tight spot. In the short run, monetary policy can help the eurozone to alleviate those problems. In the long run, its governments may have to confront an uncomfortable category of economic reforms that they have been able to avoid with some success: the reform of their corporatist systems, the ultimate cause of their economic inflexibility. This is an environment in which cutting costs is not going to cut it any longer.
Copyright The Financial Times Limited 2007
Saturday, March 03, 2007
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