Even after his time as president Barack Obama still enjoys great popularity in Europe. Thousands of people bought tickets for his appearances in Berlin, Amsterdam and Zürich.
During “an evening with President Barack Obama” in Berlin, he spoke with popular German host Klaas Heufer-Umlauf about his views on current political issues like good leadership and climate change.
He particularly warned his audience about the polarisation of today’s society and fake news. To him these are some of the biggest threats against our democracy. “Some young people think everything they see on Tiktok is true. If you’re like this, most of it isn’t true.”
However, he also said that the next generation gives him immense hope."As I travel around the world, I find that this generation of young people is intelligent, idealistic and innovative.”
The appearance was the third in a series of talks he held around Europe. He previously went to Australia.
Before coming to talk to a live audience at the Mercedes Benz arena in Berlin he paid a visit to the current chancellor of Germany Olaf Scholz.
He also visited former chancellor Angela Merkel whom he referred to as “an old friend.” While the two come from two different political ideologies, and don’t agree on everything, they share core values. It’s what makes a healthy democracy for him - “that we can debate on how to best bring forward our society and make sure that everyone is doing well.”
