interview
Green Party leader turns 30
Ricarda Lang: “I want to stop if I become cynical”
Ricarda Lang in the Paul-Löbe-Haus in Berlin: “I haven’t had the typical life of a woman in her mid-twenties in the last few years”
© Funke Photo Services / Imago Images
Ricarda Lang turns 30 on Wednesday. How the leader of the Green Party will celebrate, she has it star reveal – and also when she wants to give up her political career.
For many people, turning 30 is a turning point. Does the number scare you?
Ricarda Lang: Not at all. I look forward to everything that comes in my thirties. I haven’t had the typical life of a twenty-something in recent years. So I guess not much will change for me.
At 25 you were on the board, at 28 you were party leader. What else can come?
I was re-elected as chairwoman in November and am looking forward to leading the party together with Omid Nouripour for the next two years. That’s my focus.
Chancellor?
I don’t think that’s written in the stars right now.
When do you realize that you are significantly younger than others in politics?
Rare than expected. At first I asked myself: Will it be harder to be taken seriously? Now I know: That’s not the case.
Ricarda Lang: “I haven’t set a date”
Would something be different with more younger politicians?
Of course, not all younger people have the same views: I am politically closer to Jürgen Trittin than Philipp Amthor. However, some shared experiences of a generation create similar perspectives. It is then important to bring them together across the generations.
How long do you want to do politics?
I didn’t set a date. But I want to stop if I become cynical. For good politics you have to be convinced that people can come together.
When you look back later, what would have been your greatest achievement?
I would like to be able to say that I have contributed to making this country a little more fair. And that democracy was protected and that it remained strong.
You are treated with hostility like no other politician, often with comments aimed at your appearance. How do you manage not to take this to heart?
Not being on Twitter or X much. I don’t give my time to those who rely on destructiveness, outrage and hostility. I prefer to listen to those who want to work on solutions.
How will you spend your birthday?
With my closest companions. I was thinking about having a big celebration. But January is so busy and there’s a lot happening politically, so that’s what I’m concentrating on. A big celebration is coming this year anyway, my wedding!