3 - 2 - 1 - It's time to dive into election results

Explore the shifting political landscape of Europe

Author

Aazar Shad
June 13, 2024

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Servus an Alle!

Welcome back to the Munich Post! The purpose of this newsletter is to share: 3 bits of news, 2 upcoming events, and 1 amazing restaurant/café for expats living in and around Munich. This way, you have a pulse on what’s going on without scrolling through thousands of pages.

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3 bits of news

You knew we were going to talk about the results…

The latest European elections have stirred up quite the conversation, especially with the rise of far-right parties across the continent. Here's a quick dive into what’s happened and what it means for us.

Germany’s Vote Breakdown

Germany's 96 seats in the European Parliament are seeing some major shifts. The CDU/CSU continue to lead (heard of Friedrich Merz?), maintaining their position as the largest German party in the Parliament. However, the Social Democrats (SPD) have hit a historical low. 

While the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) made significant gains, especially in the East. This surge comes despite recent scandals, including allegations of espionage and controversial statements from party leaders. The AfD’s success highlights a broader trend of right-wing populism gaining momentum in Europe.

Additionally, Germany’s voter turnout increased for the third consecutive time, reflecting a growing engagement in European politics. 

A Shift to the Right

Across Europe, far-right parties are gaining traction. In France, the right-wing National Rally (RN) party led by Marine Le Pen received 31% of the vote, overshadowing President Macron’s centrist alliance. 

Consequences for Immigrants

Migrants across Europe are on edge as far-right parties make headway. The fear is palpable, with many worried about job security and access to social benefits as well as increased discrimination and tougher immigration policies.

In Germany, the AfD's rise is particularly concerning for the Muslim community, with leaders expressing fears about heightened xenophobia and right-wing extremism.

Economic Challenges

Economic challenges, such as the cost of living crisis, high taxes and the ongoing Ukraine conflict, have fueled support for populist parties. Many voters are frustrated with traditional parties, which they feel have failed to address these issues effectively. 

This discontent has led to a more fragmented political landscape, making it harder for established parties to form stable coalitions.

The election results also indicate a decline in support for environmental parties like Germany’s Greens, who lost significant ground due to voter concerns over the economic impact of their policies.

As Europe grapples with these election results, the impact on policy and society remains to be seen. 

For more information, check the links below.

Get ready to ride with BaSTi (R)

Photo by Paul Green on Unsplash

The new one-euro bike ticket—BaSTi (R), is making waves across Bavaria. Sponsored by the Bavarian state government, this ticket allows you to travel with your bicycle on regional trains and S-Bahn trains for just one euro (one way). 

Since December last year, BaSTi (R) was implemented to promote eco-friendly transportation by making bike travel affordable and convenient. However, there are specific routes and times when the ticket is not valid, so make sure to check those details before you plan your trip. 

Starting Thursday, August 1, the BaSTi (R) ticket will also be valid on the Oberland network, which covers areas like Holzkirchen, Lenggries, Tegernsee, and Bayrischzell. To manage the increase in bike traffic, BRB will be deploying bike guides at busy stations to assist with boarding and securing bicycles.

For more tips and information, visit the BRB website and here. 

Fast bike route opens

Munich’s first high-speed connection for cyclists is officially open. This new three-kilometer section, starting in Garching and stretching along the B13 to the Garching-Hochbrück subway station, is set to revolutionize cycling in our city. 

Funded by the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport, this 3.5 million euro project aims to ease traffic congestion and promote eco-friendly commuting.

Future sections will extend this path from Munich city center to Garching and Unterschleißheim, making daily commutes faster and greener. Cyclists can expect to cover the 19 kilometers from the city center to the TUM research campus in Garching in just about 65 minutes. 

More sections are set to be completed by early 2025, promising a seamless cycling experience across Munich.

For further details read here and here or watch this video.

BONUS: 

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2 upcoming events

Fix it together at MachsGanz event

Ever felt the frustration of a loose screw or a bike that just won't cooperate? Make your way to the ExperRIEMent head building in Riem and join the fun of repairing, creating, and connecting. 

Join them for a week of hands-on activities, from using 3D printers and laser engravers to mastering practical repair hacks. Meet like-minded folks, enjoy rap performances and snack on delicious treats. It's a perfect mix of creativity, technical skill and community spirit.

They are also looking for volunteers and craft businesses to share their skills and inspire the next generation. Interested in mentoring young repair enthusiasts or showcasing your craft? Contact them and be a part of this fantastic community initiative.

Find more information here (in German).

General information:

📍  Werner-Eckert-Straße 1, 81829 Munich

📅  Saturday, June 15–Thursday, June 20, 2024 

⏰  Various times daily

Book sale - €2 each

The Munich Readery, our city's beloved second-hand English language bookshop, is hosting an incredible sidewalk sale this Saturday, June 15, from 10am to 6pm. With hundreds of books going for just €2 each, it's the perfect opportunity to expand your collection or dive into a new genre.

General information:

📍  Augustenstraße 104, 80798 Munich

📅  Saturday, June 15, 2024

⏰  10am–6pm

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1 new restaurant/café to try

Forty Four Burger & Bar

If you're a burger aficionado, you'll want to head over to Blumenstraße 25, where a cozy, vibrant spot is serving up some of the best burgers in Munich. 

If you're into juicy, meaty patties or crave a delicious vegan option, this place has something for everyone in your group. The Vegan Wonder burger is a must-try, boasting a crispy “chicken” patty that's insanely good.

The ambiance is perfect for hanging out with friends, and the welcoming staff adds to the experience. 

Make sure to check their opening hours before you go, as they vary throughout the week. 

General information:

📍  Blumenstraße 25, 80331 München

🥘  Burgers

⏰ Tuesday - Thursday: 11am – 2pm, 5pm – 11pm

⏰ Friday: 11am – 2pm, 5pm – 1am

⏰ Saturday: 5pm – 1am

⏰ Sunday: 5pm – 11pm

⏰ Monday: Closed

Meme of the week 😂

Thanks for reading and sharing the Munich Post 3-2-1 newsletter.

See ya next week!

Aazar, Arlene, Christina, and Heidi

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