James Jackson

Articles by this author

Opinion and Analysis

OPINION: Germany's unfair school system entrenches inequality

Pupils in Germany are funnelled off into different schools at the age of 11, which map out whether they go down an academic or vocational route. But this model is unfair and disastrous for social mobility, says James Jackson.

German citizenship

German state to require citizenship applicants to declare Israel's 'right to exist'

The eastern German state of Saxony-Anhalt has announced that from now on applicants for citizenship through naturalisation will have to commit in writing to their belief in Israel’s “right to exist”. What does this mean in practice and is it allowed?

Health

In which parts of Germany do people live the longest?

Life expectancy in Germany is dropping, but is still above EU average. In which areas of Germany do people live longest and shortest lives in and what are the differences between east and west?

Politics

Why are some Germans turning towards the far-right?

With the AfD taking second place in several polls, Lecturer in German Studies Alexander Clarkson told The Local why the pandemic and a feeling of constant crisis has normalised the far-right in Germany.

housing

EXPLAINED: What is Germany doing to solve its housing crisis?

In light of Germany's growing housing shortage, politicians gathered with industry at a summit on Monday to discuss solutions. Here's how they aim to make housing more affordable and accessible to German residents.

Covid-19

OPINION: How the Covid-19 vaccine fiasco exposes the myth of German efficiency

To the world, Germany is lauded for its perceived ability to get things done. But those who live here see a more complicated relationship with efficiency. The bungled vaccine rollout shines a light on these issues, writes James Jackson.