Around the world, far-right and ultra-conservative movements are gaining power—mainstreaming ideologies once confined to the political fringes. From the recent elections in Germany to the United States, we’re witnessing a rise in extremist rhetoric, the rollback of human rights protections, and a troubling erosion of democratic norms. As these forces grow bolder, many leaders – from businesses to major media companies to higher education – are choosing silence over resistance. But neutrality in moments like these is not apolitical; it’s complicity. When leaders remain quiet, they protect the very systems that threaten the fabric of a just and equitable society.

In this episode, Manpreet Kaur Kalra is joined by longtime collaborator and CEO of El Puente, Jette Ladiges, whose voice as a business leader serves as a source of inspiration in the face of political silence. Together, they unpack why “neutrality” is not neutral, and what it means to lead fearlessly in an era defined by rising authoritarianism.

“Choosing to stay silent is just as much a political decision as taking a stand.” – Jette Ladiges, CEO of El Puente

This episode examines how rising far-right ideologies and authoritarian movements threaten not just governments, but the global economy. Manpreet and Jette discuss the recent elections in Germany and how extremist political movements in Germany, the United States, and globally pose a critical need for continuous and collective rebellion against the spread of dangerous ideologies and oppression. Against this backdrop, they argue that silence—especially from institutions with power and influence—is not a neutral position, but a tacit endorsement of harm. 

Together, they discuss how we can rethink current economic structures, the importance of small-medium size businesses, and the role of businesses in advocating for democracy and human rights. The conversation explores the urgent need for leaders across all sectors to drive structural change and lead with values, particularly in the face of today’s mounting global challenges.

They also examine how stakeholder-led governance models can disrupt extractive economic systems and serve as blueprints for systemic transformation. The discussion challenges entrenched Global North–Global South dichotomies, highlights the precarious future of Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act, and reflects on the fragility of democracy across borders. This is a conversation about rejecting complacency and recognizing that building ethical, resilient systems requires collaboration, community, and confronting extremism head-on.

Meet Our Guest

Jette Ladiges is the CEO of El Puente, a Germany-based social enterprise and member of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO). Her work has always been rooted in the social enterprise movement. She also serves on the board of the World Fair Trade Organization and Forum Fairer Handel, the German Fair Trade association and advocacy office, where she advocates for business models that put people and the planet first.

Read the full show notes: https://www.artofcitizenry.com/podcast/a-call-for-humanity-standing-against-extremism

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Thank you to our producer, Aly Honoré, and editor, Noah Kowalski.

The music featured in the podcast was created by Katrina Zemrak.