Will Germany’s federal budget end up in court? Can Germany deliver on its global military commitments? And what's happening with German beer? It may be summer, but the news is hopping with Common Ground Berlin host Soraya Sarhaddi Nelson and Berlin Briefing’s Rina Goldenberg bringing you the latest on German politics and society.

Produced by Eden Brockman.

Eighty years after the sexual liberation movement began, many people are still uncomfortable talking about sexually transmitted diseases and infections. But in our explicit and provocative episode commemorating the late Dr. Ruth, you will learn what’s going on with STDs and STIs in Berlin and beyond, along with tips on protecting your sexual health.

Host Soraya Sarhaddi Nelson and Audio and Visual Editor Eden Brockman speak to:

Dr. Martin Viehweger of ViRo Praxis in Berlin

Lou Zucker of Pro Familia

Christopher Clay of Checkpoint BLN in Berlin

Produced by Eden Brockman.

It’s Pride Month in Germany and we are discussing the new Self-Determination Act, or “Selbstbestimmungsgesetz,” which will soon make it easier for transgender, intersex and non-binary teens and adults to legally change their names and gender.

The new act, which takes effect in part on Aug. 1 and in full, on Nov. 1, will replace a costly, red-tape-laden law that’s been in effect for more than 40 years. It also amends a 2018 law that only allows intersex people to legally identify as a third, non-binary gender.

Host Soraya Sarhaddi Nelson delves into the pros and cons of the new act with Finn Ballard and Malkina Vargas in Berlin, Miltos Pavlou of the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, and Lasst Uns Sprechen.

Produced by Eden Brockman