Ideas shaping our future

We highlight thinkers whose visions push boundaries and illuminate what comes next. Their insights offer direction, spark debate, and help us navigate a rapidly changing world with purpose and clarity.
"We cannot all be angels. But we can be human."  Margot Friedländer, Holocaust survivor from Germany
(1921-2025)
She has passed away, yet her voice still cuts through time with a clarity few achieve. In this exclusive conversation, the renowned Holocaust survivor reflects on the brutality she endured, the fragile choices that kept her alive and the stubborn belief in humanity that shaped her century-long mission. She speaks about memory as responsibility, empathy as resistance and unity as the only real antidote to hate. Her message is not a farewell but a sharp reminder that history’s lessons fade unless we carry them forward.

The CEO of Allianz challenges Germany to rethink its approach to skilled labor. In this interview, he argues that the real issue isn't a lack of skilled workers, but rather a lack of motivation and opportunity to work more.

He advocates for tax incentives, expanded childcare, and improved healthcare to unleash productivity. His vision is clear: with the right changes, Germany could unlock  billions of euros in economic potential. 

"Without a shortage of skilled workers, German companies could generate 49 billion euros more at full caacitpy." Oliver Bäte, Chairman of the Board of Management of Allianz SE (CEO)
"How ‘patient capital’ can unlock the next wave of global growth." Dr. Andreas Wimmer, member of the board of management at Allianz SE

As a Member of the Board of Management at Allianz SE, Andreas Wimmer speaks about the longevity dividend, arguing that aging societies have created vast pools of patient capital through pensions and life insurance. This capital can be deployed for next-generation infrastructure.

AI’s transformative potential and rapid evolution are reshaping the risk landscape.” Michael Bruch, Global Head of Risk Consulting Advisory Services at Allianz Commercial

The Global Head of Risk Consulting Advisory Services at Allianz Commercial urges companies worldwide to rethink their risk management strategies. He argues that the real challenge lies not only in combating cyberattacks and AI risks but also in the ability to quickly adapt to the changing risk landscape. Bruch advocates for a comprehensive strategy that strengthens companies against emerging threats.

"Bad news and fake news infect us like viral pathogens."  Prof. Dr. Volker Busch, Neurologist, psychiatrist and neuroscientist
He is Neurologist and Psychiatrist and illuminates how bad news and fake news can fuel fear and passivity. Drawing on his expertise in the interplay between stress, pain, and emotions, he shares strategies to cultivate optimism and resilience, highlighting the importance of small, concrete actions and mindful media consumption.
"Compulsory insurance in isolation is not a solution." Dr. Klaus-Peter Röhler, Member of the Board of Management of Allianz SE
As Member of the Board of Management of Allianz SE, he emphasizes that compulsory insurance alone isn't the answer to growing climate risks. He advocates for a triad of prevention, risk-based premiums, and government support to ensure insurability and affordability in the face of climate change.
"To prevent political divisions, we must not tear down bridges in our private lives but maintain them." Adrian Blattner, Political Polarization Researcher Standford University
As a researcher at Stanford University Adrian explores the landscape of political polarization in Germany, the U.S., and Brazil. He highlights the rise of affective polarization and underscores the need for dialogue and understanding to bridge divides, emphasizing the importance of maintaining personal connections despite political differences.
"If you have nothing to hide, what’s the problem?" Philip Räther, Group Chief Data Privacy and AI Trust Officer at Allianz Group
He is Group Chief Data Privacy and AI Trust Officer at Allianz SE and examines the balance between privacy and digitalization. He challenges the "nothing to hide" notion, emphasizing our data's immense value and the power of responsible use while offering insights on protecting privacy and embracing digital growth.
"The former global order is breaking up or gone already. We live in a world with no strong peacekeepers."  Sigmar Gabriel,
 Former German Vice-Chancellor and current President of the "Atlantic Bridge"
He is former German Vice-Chancellor and warns of a world without strong peacekeepers as the old global order fades. He emphasizes Europe's unique journey from conflict to unity and calls for renewed focus on economic strength and hope to counter polarization and uncertainty. 
"AI has far greater potential, it can help solve one of the biggest social challenges of our time: The global insurance gap." Manuela Diviach, Head of Group Operations, Organization and Data, Allianz SE
She is Head of Group Operations, Organization and Data & AI at Allianz SE and highlights AI's potential to close the global insurance gap in pensions, cyber, health, and natural disasters. Trust in AI is crucial, requiring clear governance, high data standards, and transparent communication to enable individual coverage for all.
"Populist-led governments fail to deliver on all their key promises." Dr. Hans-Jörg Naumer, Head of Global Capital Markets & Thematic Research Allianz Global Investors
Dr. Naumer critiques populism's divisive nature and unmet promises, highlighting its role in worsening economic disparities. Advocating for individual wealth creation and better financial education, he stresses that true prosperity means "prosperity for all".
"What is not sustainable cannot be sustained." Günther Thallinger, Member of the Board of Management at Allianz SE
As Member of the Board of Management at Allianz SE he argues that sustainability remains crucial despite shifting global priorities. He asserts that economic logic, risk management, and long-term competitiveness make sustainability an irreversible trend.
"“Power of Unity” is a call to action. And it’s urgent."  Sirma Boshnakova, Member of the Board of Management at Allianz SE
She is Member of the Board of Management of Allianz SE and emphasizes the "Power of Unity" campaign as an urgent call to action. Highlighting diversity and unity's value, she urges to bridge divides and inspire optimism in our polarized world, starting with those around us.
"Nothing teaches you better life skills than the unifying power of sport." Andrew Parson, President of the International Paralympic Commitee (IPC)
As President of the International Paralympic Committee he emphasizes sport’s role in teaching life skills and fostering global unity. He highlights the Paralympic Games’ celebration of human potential which challenges stigmatization, urging us to embrace inclusivity and remove barriers for persons with disabilities.
"Hybrid working is not always easy." Bettina Dietsche, Chief People and Culture Officer for Allianz Group
As Chief People and Culture Officer for Allianz Group, she discusses Allianz's commitment to hybrid working, emphasizing flexibility and employee well-being. She outlines how Allianz balances remote work with office presence, fostering innovation and resilience while maintaining productivity and a supportive work culture.
Do you have any questions or need additional support?
Collage of three power of unity actions
Join Allianz on the Power of Unity journey – explore polarization, discover global initiatives, and tools to combat division and build stable future.
Net structure developed by artificial intelligence
Discover how Allianz explores key questions around artificial intelligence and contributes meaningful perspectives to the global conversation.