Gregor Gysi at the Cottbus Europe Forum on the question: Does eastern Germany have doubts about Europe?

The officer at this year’s Cottbus European Dialogue is Dr Gregor Gysi, the oldest member of the German Bundestag. A native of Berlin, he has been a member of the party “Die Linke” since 2007 and is regarded as a leading voice for East German perspectives in German politics. In his lecture, he will explore why many people in East Germany view the European Union with scepticism. What historical, social and political experiences shape this attitude? What misunderstandings and legitimate concerns exist – and how can Europe respond to them?

The evening will begin with welcoming remarks from BTU President Prof. Dr Gesine Grande and the Mayor of Cottbus/Chóśebuz, Doreen Mohaupt. This will be followed by a concluding Q&A session with Dr Gregor Gysi and questions from the audience. From 7 pm, there will be a relaxed get-together with information stands from BTU Cottbus–Senftenberg and the Spree-Neiße-Bober Euroregion, together with Europe Direct Guben.

Cottbus Europe Talk with Gregor Gysi
Friday, 8 May 2026, 5 pm
Cottbus Main Campus, Main Lecture Theatre (GH)
Konrad-Zuse-Straße 4, 03046 Cottbus

All interested members of the public are warmly welcome. Admission is free. No registration is required.

About the “Cottbus European Talks” series

Since 2023, a Cottbus European Discussion has taken place every year during Europe Month in May. The series brings figures from politics, academia and the public sphere to Cottbus to discuss current European issues with members of the public. The talks are organised by the Centre for Legal and Administrative Sciences at BTU Cottbus–Senftenberg, the City of Cottbus/Chóśebuz and the Euroregion Spree-Neiße-Bober e.V. in collaboration with Europe Direct Guben.