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In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by journalists Imogen Goodman and journalist Aaron Burnett as well as Olga Kravchenko, a refugee from Donbas, Ukraine, based in Cottbus, eastern Germany.

We start off by discussing a major news story that broke this week about an alleged coup plot in Germany.

•  Who was involved in the alleged plot to ‘overthrow German democracy’?
• German authorities identify new suspects in alleged coup plot

We then talk about Olaf Scholz’s busy first year as German Chancellor – and we dissect what the coalition government has achieved (and where they haven’t hit the mark). 

• Scholz marks turbulent first year as German Chancellor
• German government is pushing ambitious agenda despite turbulent first year 

We talk about the significance of a campaign that led to Berlin changing two street names to honour those who stood up against German colonialism. 

• Berlin says goodbye to part of Germany’s colonial past 

Next, we discuss how the German government is supporting consumers by paying their gas bills in December, and what people should be aware of.

• When will people in Germany get their December gas bill payout?

We talk about reported record figures on migration to Germany in 2022, fuelled by refugees arriving from Ukraine. We look at how that compares to the 2015 crisis, and how authorities are coping at the moment. Plus we hear from Olga Kravchenko – a refugee from Ukraine in Germany – who shares some of the challenges she’s faced this year. 

Finally, we share some tips on what you should know if you’re visiting Germany this winter, whether it’s about the best food to eat, the weather or the Glühwein deposit rule.

• 9 things to know if you’re visiting Germany in December 

We hope you’re enjoying the Germany in Focus podcast. Please let us know if you found it helpful or if you have any feedback by emailing [email protected]. And don’t forget to share it, leave a comment or give us a rating on whichever platform you listen on. Danke!