A dialogue with Samuel Brielmaier from Brand New Bundestag
What if you could change politics in Germany? Samuel Brielmaier is doing just that. With his organization "Brand New Bundestag," he supports progressive, diverse talents on their path into politics. The success is tangible: in 2021, four of the supported candidates were elected to the Bundestag. But behind this success lies a deep understanding of freedom—and the urgent need to defend it today.
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The personal path: When freedom becomes concrete
Samuel Brielmaier’s understanding of freedom is not only theoretical, it is rooted in formative personal experiences.
The first lesson: A camping trip to Austria
As a child in the Boy Scouts, he experienced a moment that changed everything. Refugee children in his group weren't allowed to go on a camping trip to nearby Austria because their residency status prohibited it. "Until then, I had never thought about how special it was to be able to move freely in Europe," he recalls. It was the first realization that freedom is a privilege.
Today's reality: A life on hold
This awareness has deepened through his work. He tells the story of Robert, a man who has lived in Chemnitz since he was eight months old. After 30 years, he speaks perfect German and wants to work. But his stateless status prevents him from doing so. "Someone who wants to earn their own living isn't allowed to work—that's a profound restriction of freedom," Samuel notes.
The Limits of Freedom: A Political Negotiation Process
For Samuel Brielmaier, the debate about the limits of freedom is complex. It's not just about one's own freedom ending where another's begins. It's about a constant social negotiation process.
Redistribution as a gain in freedom
He argues that expanding freedom often means actively addressing inequality. "When we redistribute resources, some people gain freedoms, while others may have to give up certain privileges," he explains. The goal is a fairer and more equal society for all.
The appeal: Why we must defend our freedom now
For Samuel, freedom is inextricably linked to responsibility. He is deeply concerned about the current threats to democracy in Germany and Europe.
"Especially in Germany, we see political movements that seek to restrict the freedoms of others – be they migrants, people with a migration background, or LGBTQ+ people," he warns. His message is clear and aimed at the mainstream of society: "We must stand up and say: 'Stop. We stand for a tolerant and free society in which everyone can strive for their own aspirations.'"
Conclusion: The fight for a freer future for all
Samuel Brielmaier's vision is both personal and collective. He recognizes the privileges his German passport confers on him and is actively working with "Brand New Bundestag" to ensure that more and more diverse voices can help shape Germany's future. His closing remarks are a call to action at a time when freedom is threatened, particularly by right-wing extremists:
"We must work together to ensure that even more people can be freer in their decisions." - Samuel Brielmaier
