HSZG Professor Raj Kollmorgen in public discourse
Prof. Dr. Raj Kollmorgen, Professor for the Management of Social Change at the HSZG, analyzes the change in East Germany - between elites, mentalities and social anger - in current reports on MDR, SWR and ARD.
Prof. Dr. Raj Kollmorgen, Professor of management of social change at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, is a renowned social scientist and a sought-after voice in the public debate on transformation processes, East German identities, and societal developments. In several recent media appearances, he has shared his research perspectives with the general public—most recently on MDR, SWR, and ARD.
1. MDR KULTUR – Diskurs: Distant Elites? Raj Kollmorgen on East Germans in Leadership Positions
On the program “Diskurs,” Prof. Kollmorgen discusses the latest Elite Monitor, which examines the proportion of East Germans in leadership positions. While this figure has risen slightly in recent years, he notes, there is still no sign of true parity.
Listen here: MDR KULTUR – Diskurs
2. SWR Kultur – Talk: East and West Forever? On the Power of Mentalities
On the SWR Forum, Prof. Kollmorgen joins other experts to discuss the enduring differences between East and West—more than 35 years after reunification. He sheds light on why differences in mentality are not merely prejudices, but rather an expression of profound social experiences that have persisted across generations.
Watch the episode: SWR Forum – East and West Forever?
3. ARD Documentary – Anger. Now We’re Heading West
In the latest ARD documentary by Matthias Schmidt, Prof. Kollmorgen serves as an expert, helping to trace the causes of the growing alienation between East and West. The documentary asks why many East Germans still feel resentment over inequalities—and how West Germans perceive this. Prof. Kollmorgen provides historical and sociological context that helps to better understand today’s lines of conflict.
About the documentary: ARD Mediathek – Anger. Now We’re Heading West
Further reports:
Prof. Dr. Raj Kollmorgen teaches and conducts research at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences in the Master's degree programme management of social change. His research focuses on transformation studies, social inequality, East German studies, and social cohesion. He regularly appears as an expert on radio, television, and in print media and is considered one of the most prominent voices in East German social research.
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