WHU Co-Hosts Forum for Democracy and Economy

Even though democracy remains at the core of our modern society, the very concept can spark wild debate and deep discussion—especially today, in light of recent geopolitical tensions. Jointly organized by the Wirtschafts- & Wissenschafts-Allianz Koblenz e.V. and WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, the Forum for Democracy and Economy provided a platform to engage in these matters purposefully and to strengthen ties between business professionals, policymakers, and scholars. Held on November 5, 2025, in Koblenz’s historic town hall, the event welcomed an illustrious panel of guest speakers who gave insight into why upholding democracy is imperative for a secure future.

With roughly 150 guests in attendance, the conference began with a welcoming address from David Langner, mayor of Koblenz, and a digital greeting from Germany’s Federal Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Building Verena Hubertz, herself an alumna of WHU. In his presentation, Professor Markus Rudolf (Chair of Finance at WHU) used scientific reasoning to prove links between democracy, prosperity, and societal happiness. Dr. Herfried Münkler, professor emeritus at the Humboldt University of Berlin, presented an analysis of the geopolitical challenges facing democratic societies today.

Their findings echoed in the words of Alexander Schweitzer, Minister-President of Rhineland-Palatinate: “Democracy is the foundation of our economic strengths. Democracy brings with it stability and trust. It is the very basis of equal opportunity for all people to develop. And today’s companies play a central role here. Democracy is alive in these companies when employees have a chance to actively participate; their participation is, therefore, an integral part of our economic system,” he noted. “Simultaneously, democratic frameworks strengthen our own center of commerce and industry. The rule of law is something that entrepreneurs can rely on, and it makes the location attractive to skilled workers coming from abroad. That is why it is our shared responsibility to defend democracy at all levels.”

Two panel discussions centered on one question: “Does a free economy need democracy?” Moderators journalist Tina Dauster, Alexander Schweitzer, Dr. Anna Köbberling (Member of the State Parliament of Rhineland-Palatinate), Professor Münkler, Dr. Andreas Nick (Partner at Brunswick Group), WHU alum Alexander Weber (Member of the Board at Debeka), and other experts discussed the balance between economic freedom, international responsibility, and fundamental democratic values.

“The discussions we have had today show that democracy and economy can only be future proof if they work in tandem. Especially today in these challenging times, we need space for open, objective dialogue,” concluded Professor Rudolf.

Citing the “Demokratieindex” published by the Economist Intelligence Unit, the organizers behind the event have noted that, in various parts of the world, democratic quality has been on a gradual decline since 2015, a dangerous trend that threatens a country’s societal freedom and well-being. Currently, as of the most recent World Happiness Index, Germany stands as the twenty-second happiest nation on Earth.

Click here to learn more about the Forum for Democracy and Economy (in German).