Political rhetoric is fuelled by discussions about what it takes to be ‘one of us’, but the jury is out on what that really entails. With changing attitudes on how birthplace, customs, and language contribute to determining national identity, brands are having to rethink how they navigate patriotism.

Germany’s federal government is adding a ministry for 'heimat' – a term that translates as 'homeland'. Despite nationalistic connotations, uneven economic progress has created fissures among the population, so nostalgic views of national identity are being used to bring people back together.

For Germans, the country's auto sector has always embodied the nation’s character – precision, efficiency and reliability. But with numerous scandals playing out on the global stage, it's not only the industry that's facing an existential crisis, but Germany as a whole.

Germany's highest court has ruled that there must be a “Third Option” when it comes to registering a person who is considered intersex. This marks a move away from the forceful assignment of a gender at birth and opens the door for other Western nations to follow suit.