This paper examines how these regions navigate three defining dynamics of 2026: rearmament driven by Europe’s military build-up, looming recarbonisation as fossil fuel dependencies are deepened, and political realignment marked by surging populist anti-establishment movements.
Drawing on three years of transatlantic research and exchange, the project’s closing conference explored actionable strategies for heartland revitalization—demonstrating that cities and municipalities are driving both economic revival and democratic renewal.
Two new policy papers offer valuable insights into (former) industrial regions in the United States. Here’s what we learned discussing them with experts.
Public support for climate and economic policies remains remarkably stable in Germany and the U.S., with no significant backlash against green agendas in either country.
Developing solutions for a better, greener and more democratic life
Public opinion on the politics of the industrial heartlands in the US and Germany
In his new paper, John Austin delves into the global rise of nationalist and anti-democratic sentiments, particularly in economically declining industrial heartland communities in Europe and the United States. Based on the learnings from the Industrial Heartlands and Democracy Study Tour in November 2023, the paper outlines the reasons behind people’s dissatisfaction and anger. Factors such as economic decline, geographic inequality, social alienation, and political disillusionment emphasize the urgent need for leaders to understand the underlying emotions and experiences driving these anti-democratic sentiments.
How can we, economically and socially, revitalize former industrial heartland regions while promoting a green transition? This question sat at the heart of our Industrial Heartlands and Democracy Study Tour held in November 2023, which brought together officials and economic change-makers from the US Midwest for a transatlantic exchange with their European peers.
Beyond mere electoral considerations it remains a crucial task for democrats to understand the reasons for the rise of far-right ideologies.
The European Union is heading towards the next election. Prognoses assume a shift to the right, in particular with gains for the national-conservative and far-right fringe parties. Progressives will have to brace for an intensive campaign.
How can industrial heartlands in Germany and the United States be drivers of a just transition?
What are the current challenges faced by post-industrial heartland communities and regions?