Today is day 178 of my exile.
Exile 178.
Nineteen seventy-eight.
The year 1978 is marked by a fragile balance between the power blocs. The policy of détente still lingers, but trust remains limited. In Europe, the front lines of the Cold War are stabilizing, while in many regions of the world new conflicts are emerging.
In the Federal Republic of Germany, economic consolidation and security policy debates shape the landscape. The terror of the previous years still lingers, and the state is expanding its protective mechanisms. In foreign policy, Bonn continues to rely on integration within NATO and the European Community while at the same time maintaining dialogue with the East.
In the GDR, the leadership seeks international recognition and economic stability. Dependence on Soviet raw materials and loans remains. Domestically, control is maintained while at the same time attempting to demonstrate capacity to act through limited cultural openings.
Globally, the balance of power is shifting. In Italy, the murder of Aldo Moro shakes the political system. In the Middle East, talks between Egypt and Israel lead to the Camp David Accords, an attempt to diplomatically overcome decades of confrontation. In Asia and Africa, numerous proxy conflicts remain expressions of global rivalry, fueled by ideology, security interests, and historical fractures.
Wars and crises do not arise from a single decision, but from long chains of mutual perceptions, fears, and claims to power. 1978 also shows how much stability depends on the interplay of many actors.
Exile 178.
The world remains suspended between hope for understanding and the persistent caution of the power blocs.
Exile Chronicle
All previous (from 130 – earlier entries are on X/Twitter) and ongoing entries of my Exile Chronicle are collected and documented here:
👉 https://marlas.army/exil-chronik/
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