On July 16, 2025, the weekly newspaper DIE ZEIT published an interview with Prof. Dr. phil. Nadine Jukschat(Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences) and Dr. Franz Erhard(University of Siegen) on the social science perspective on structural change in Lusatia. The discussion focused on the opportunities and challenges of the energy transition, the social significance of change and the question of how local communities can be involved in the process. Jukschat and Erhard reported on their research experiences in the BMFTR-funded joint research project BePart. The project carried out ethnographically oriented case studies in two small towns in Saxony and Brandenburg: named "Ostenau" and "Rabenfurt" for reasons of anonymity. In Ostenau, the consequences of the economic decline were clearly noticeable - but at the same time, strong civic engagement was also evident there, for example in the voluntary operation of the local outdoor pool. Rabenfurt, on the other hand, is economically more stable, but here the development processes are mainly characterized by local companies and a top-down logic. The two researchers make it clear that structural change means more than just economic development: it is also a social and emotional process that brings back memories of the post-reunification period. Many people associate change with uncertainty or loss, which can encourage a defensive attitude. At the same time, Jukschat and Erhard draw attention to numerous positive approaches - from democratic initiatives to returnees who bring new impetus to their home region. The interview shows that structural change is not achieved through technological investment alone - spaces for encounters, recognition of local strengths and genuine opportunities for participation are also crucial.