In the latest episode of the F.A.Z. Podcast for Germany, historians and journalists analyze U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's recent address at the Munich Security Conference, where he presented a narrative centered on 'Western civilization.' Host Matthias Wyssuwa and historian Andreas Daum delve into Rubio's speech, pointing out significant omissions and the potential dangers of instrumentalizing history in political discourse. They outline how Rubio’s appeal to historical references may resonate with audiences but fails to address pressing contemporary issues.

The podcast provides an in-depth breakdown of the Munich Security Conference weekend, starting with remarks from Chancellor Merz, who set the tone for the event. The hosts discuss how the overarching narrative of Western unity and democratic values was articulated by Rubio, juxtaposing it against the reality of varying perceptions and responses in Europe. They question what lasting impact Rubio’s speech might have on European leaders and citizens amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

By dissecting these speeches within a historical context, the podcast urges listeners to critically assess the use of historical narratives in contemporary political rhetoric, especially in relation to security and international relations. They argue that while such narratives can be powerful, ignoring critical aspects of history may lead to a distorted understanding of current global challenges and a malfunctioning security narrative in Europe.