Greens politics have always operated under the mantra: Think Globally, Act Locally. As the International Coordinator of our Party, I seek out ways to ensure that we as Bündnis 90/Die Grünen have strong connections abroad and support global green movements. I coordinate the international work done by the Bündnis 90/Die Grünen with the European Green Party (EGP) and the Global Greens, both of which allow Green parties and Green political groups across Europe and across the globe to join forces. Some of my tasks of promoting bilateral cooperation is collaboration with the Green Party of Japan and the establishment of a close regional network with the Green Parties of Switzerland and Austria.

Green politics have recently received more attention, not only in Germany, but also worldwide. Marina Silva, a Green politician in Brazil, received almost 20% of the vote in the 2010 presidential election. The Australian Greens are supporting the current majority government. In Africa more and more Green political groups are arising, despite extremely difficult working conditions and sometimes life-threatening risks.

Our work with the European Green Party has become especially important. Europe has been growing closer politically and we Greens are a driving force here. We hold regular party councils and every five years an extended party congress, where there are representatives and delegates from all German states. There, we work on position papers and develop campaigns together as well as try to strengthen day-to-day political cooperation. I really enjoy getting to know Green and Green-friendly people from all over Europe and being able discuss political issues and develop ideas with them.