Is Germany really one of the hardest countries to start a new life in?

Germany in Focus

In the latest episode, host Rachel Loxton is joined by The Local Germany journalists Rachel Stern and Aaron Burnett.

We start off by discussing what a 'megastrike' in Germany could look like. Since we recorded the podcast, unions have announced a nationwide transport strike on Monday March 27th.

• German unions call major nationwide major transport strike on Monday

We also talk about whether people can get a paid day off if they can't get to work or find childcare due to industrial action.

• Strikes: Do parents in Germany receive a day off work when Kitas close?

Next we get into about rent developments in Germany’s biggest cities; where rents are rising fastest and where renting is most expensive.

• How rents are changing in Germany's five biggest cities

If you’re not familiar with Schlager music, don’t worry! We take a deep dive into the genre and talk about why Schlager legend Helene Fischer has been in the German news.

• Why are people in Germany so obsessed with Schlager music?

The German Bundestag - one of the largest parliaments in the world - is going to get smaller. We try to explain why and what it all means.

• German parliament votes to make itself smaller in disputed reform

A survey found that Germany is one of the most difficult places for foreigners to get started in. We’ll talk about that and hear from Kathleen Parker of Red Tape Translation, which helps immigrants in Germany with admin and bureaucracy.

• Germany ranked 'most difficult country' for foreign residents to get started

Lastly, we share some tips about how to get on with your neighbours in Germany.

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