Kaput - Konec německého zázraku – Munchau Wolfgang (2025)

A compelling and comprehensive analysis of the German model. – Financial Times


Until recently, Germany was considered a model of economic and political success. Angela Merkel was widely seen as the true "leader of the free world," and the country's export-oriented economic model ensured prosperity. However, recent events have disrupted this image – from Germany's dependence on Russian gas to delays in the automotive industry in the race to achieve electromobility.

Wolfgang Münchau, in his book Kaput, argues that the weaknesses of the German economy have actually been developing for decades. The neomercantilist policies of the German state, driven by close ties between the industrial and political elite, have left the country technologically backward, overly dependent on authoritarian Russia and China, and unable to adapt to the digital reality of the 21st century.

This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the future of the largest European economy.