Bahlsen CEO Calls for Corporate Commitment to Democracy

Alexander Kühnen, CEO of the German biscuit manufacturer Bahlsen, has called on companies to take a clear stance for democracy and distanced himself from the AfD. Referring to Bahlsen's core values, Kühnen stated that only democratic parties represent those values and drew a firm line: positions such as "remigration", as put forward by the right wing party AfD, are simply not acceptable for him. He grounded his stance in economic reasoning: Germany needs skilled workers, open trade within Europe, and stable economic conditions. Against this backdrop, he concluded, the AfD is no alternative "neither as a businessperson nor personally." Kühnen also addressed the responsibility that comes with corporate leadership. He expressed the wish that people in such positions would make greater use of their influence for a good cause. Internally, Kühnen is translating this conviction into practice: guided by four company values - curiosity, courage, support, and ambition - Bahlsen actively encourages all employees, regardless of their role, to speak up and show integrity.