Yesterday, Billy Wagner, the visionary behind Berlin’s legendary Nobelhart und Schmutzig, posted a powerful speech—a direct message to German voters as they prepare for the upcoming elections.
In a time of rising extremism, when some of the world’s wealthiest individuals are both financially and ideologically fueling far-right movements, silence is not an option. It takes courage to stand up, and Billy did just that. It’s inspiring to see a restaurateur use his platform not just for food, but for something far greater—defending democracy and what is right.
Not everyone speaks German, so I asked Billy for permission to share his speech in English. Because messages like this must be heard.
Thank you, Billy, for speaking out and standing tall. We need more voices like yours.
Hi, I’m Billy Wagner, the owner of Nobelhart & Schmutzig in Berlin.
We’ve got the German elections coming up in less than a week…
Don’t worry, I’m not here to tell you how to vote.
But I do have some thoughts I’d like to share.
Honestly, when I look at how language has evolved lately, it makes me uneasy.
And this isn’t about specific political parties—it’s about the rise of populism in general.
It’s no longer even pretending to be about real solutions.
Instead, it’s all about fueling hatred, provocation, and a complete lack of restraint.
And it always comes at the expense of those who are already most vulnerable.
Words like “remigration” are being thrown around now, along with calls to abolish asylum rights and dismantle the welfare state.
But these conversations aren’t about anything constructive.
They’re about creating scapegoats, further deepening the divide.
The way people are being talked about—It truly shocks me.
It’s part ideological, but more so, it’s strategic.
We are living in a time of extreme complexity. Many of us feel scared, overwhelmed, and like we’ve been left behind.
And when politicians start scapegoating, it’s incredibly effective.
Scapegoats simplify things in a dangerously convenient way.
They channel our inner fears outward.
At first, it feels reassuring.
But it also unleashes a wave of aggression—
Aggression that, on one hand, consolidates power, and, on the other, is directed against the weakest members of society.
Right now, it’s migrants and those on social welfare.
And at some point, it will target anyone who is “different” from the majority.
If you’re paying attention, you will see exactly what’s at stake—and who will be next.
When it’s all said and done, don’t tell me you didn’t know.
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I believe that anyone with a platform should speak up now.
I’m an entrepreneur myself.
And if you’re an entrepreneur, an employer, or someone responsible for others or who influences your community—now is not the time to stay silent.
I know it’s uncomfortable. It’s controversial. And in Germany, we’re not always eager to do this.
We like to compartmentalise: “Oh, this has nothing to do with our work.” “It doesn’t affect us.” “We’ve got enough on our plate.”
This is exactly what people said 90 years ago.
It’s retreating into business as usual.
We cannot let history repeat itself.
We have to be willing to be uncomfortable. That’s our responsibility. We must take a stand.
If basic humanity isn’t enough of a reason for you:
A politics that excludes, entrenches inequalities, weakens the vulnerable, and erodes trust in our democracy isn’t progressive. It’s not forward-thinking.
It’s not the kind of politics that fosters innovation, new opportunities, or sustainable prosperity.
It’s a politics that turns back the clock.
We can’t let that happen. I won’t let that happen.
I always thought that, especially in Germany, we knew our history—and had learned from it.
For many of us, the past is a warning.
But for some, it’s an inspiration.
These are the people trying to realize their fantasies of power by dividing society. Through misinformation, scapegoating, hatred, and fear.
They’re the ones deliberately destroying trust: trust in one another, and in our democracy.
We’ve seen this before. Let’s not allow it to happen again.
Like I said, I’m not here to tell you how to vote. That’s not my place.
But please—vote. And think about the kind of society you want to live in.
Please use whatever platform you have. Even if it’s uncomfortable.
Thank you.
Billy Wagner, Nobelhart und Schmutzig
If you are part of the food community and want your voice to be heard too, please contact us.
