Stories from Cologne · Germany

A survey by the SINUS Institute on behalf of health insurer Barmer shows that only four out of ten youths considered climate change a very topic last year. This is a decrease from 2021, when six out of ten youths rated the topic as very. The report was discussed on DLF Nova.

A new three-part ARD documentary series explores the life of German rapper and producer Chata, who died at age 43 in Cologne. Chata, born Giva Hajjabi, was found dead in a Cologne apartment under circumstances that remain unexplained.

Approximately 100 people protested in front of a cultural center in Cologne. The demonstrators raised various issues ranging from agriculture to peace policy. The protest follows a recent citizen dialogue held by the AfD state association two weeks ago.

German authorities are investigating potential violations of pricing rules at gas stations following research into fuel costs. The Federal Cartel Office has called for consequences, though jurisdiction over enforcement remains unclear.

Reporters Without Borders stated that journalists in Czechia, Iceland, and Liechtenstein are facing increased pressure on journalism and information freedom.

Berlin and Magdeburg are competing for a place in the Handball Champions League Final 4. Magdeburg reportedly threw away their quarterfinal match. The Belgian newcomer and surprise semifinalist Alexander Blocks is also mentioned in the context of the tournament.

The Bergische government intends to initiate a radical turn in energy policy, according to a report from WDR 5. One reactor has been idle for a long time and is currently undergoing a decommissioning program that is difficult to stop.

The University of Cologne has established specific AI guidelines to maintain control over confidential data. Stefan Wesner stated that local systems must be used for confidential information to prevent data misuse by conventional AI providers.

North Rhine-Westphalia Science Minister Ina Brandes awarded funding for the AI-Mate project today. The AI tool was co-developed by universities in Cologne, Aachen, and Bochum. Researchers and students are already utilizing the technology.

German and Austrian painter, sculptor, and graphic artist Georg Baselitz has died at the age of 88. He was considered one of the most contemporary artists in Germany and Austria. The source noted he most recently exhibited in Salzburg.