Germany’s Vergangenheitsbewältigung: Why It’s Not as Perfect as It Seems

On my private tours of Berlin, we talk a lot about the Holocaust and World War II. Like many others, I deeply respect Germany’s efforts in facing its Nazi past. The country has built memorials, integrated Holocaust education into its curriculum, and committed itself to remembrance in ways that set an international example. But when people praise Germany for this, I like to remind them: Germany still has much to learn from itself.

One glaring omission in Germany’s process of Vergangenheitsbewältigung (coming to terms with the past) is its colonial history. While Berlin is filled with memorials dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust, you won’t find a major monument in the city center acknowledging Germany’s colonial crimes. Nor is this history a significant part of school education, and many Germans remain unaware of their country’s violent colonial past—particularly the genocide in Namibia.

The Forgotten Genocide: Germany in Namibia

Between 1904 and 1908, German colonial forces committed what is now recognized as the first genocide of the 20th century against the Herero and Nama peoples in present-day Namibia. Tens of thousands were killed—either shot or driven into the desert to die of starvation and dehydration. Survivors were forced into concentration camps, where many perished from forced labor, abuse, and medical experiments.

And yet, despite this horrifying chapter in history, there is no central memorial in Berlin acknowledging these crimes. Contrast this with the massive Holocaust Memorial near the Brandenburg Gate, a powerful statement of remembrance. The difference is striking—and telling.

Selective Memory: Why Some Crimes Are Remembered More Than Others

Germany has done an exceptional job at reckoning with the Holocaust, but its colonial past remains largely unaddressed. Why?

One reason is how post-war identity was shaped. Confronting the Holocaust was crucial to rebuilding Germany’s global standing and integrating into Europe. Colonial crimes, however, took place far from Germany and primarily affected non-European victims, leading to less public and political pressure to acknowledge them.

Education is another issue. While every German student learns about Nazi atrocities, colonialism is barely covered in school curricula. Many Germans simply don’t know about their country’s role in Africa, let alone the fact that it committed genocide there.

A Reckoning Still in Progress

There have been some steps toward recognition. In 2021, Germany officially acknowledged the Namibian genocide and pledged financial aid (though stopping short of full reparations). Some Berlin street names that once honored colonial figures have been changed. Museums have started returning stolen artifacts and human remains.

But these efforts pale in comparison to Germany’s handling of the Holocaust. There is still no national day of remembrance for colonial crimes. No large-scale public education efforts. No major monument in Berlin. Without these, true Vergangenheitsbewältigung remains incomplete.

Calls for Comprehensive Reckoning

Activists and scholars argue that Germany's commitment to confronting its past should extend beyond the Nazi era to include its colonial history. Acknowledging and addressing colonial crimes is essential for a holistic understanding of history and for fostering genuine reconciliation with affected communities. Efforts such as the repatriation of stolen artifacts and human remains are steps in this direction but remain limited. 

To achieve a more complete Vergangenheitsbewältigung, Germany must integrate its colonial past into public memory. This includes establishing memorials for colonial atrocities, incorporating this history into educational curricula, and engaging in open dialogues about the lasting impacts of colonialism. Such measures would demonstrate a genuine commitment to confronting all aspects of Germany's history, not just those already in the public consciousness.​

As we explore Berlin's historical landscape during our private tours, it's crucial to recognize both the achievements and shortcomings of Germany's journey in facing its past. By shedding light on overlooked histories, we contribute to a more comprehensive and honest understanding of the events that have shaped the present.