As COVID restrictions prompt people to embrace new digital communication tools, an exclusive audio-only discussion app is taking off in Germany. But Clubhouse has also been called elitist.
Free speech on social networks
Why is it successful in Germany now?
The range of topics for chats is huge. I found it interesting just now to join in a discussion on Black Talks Germany wrote Green Party politician Aminata Toure on Twitter about her participation in a chat focusing on racism in the country.
Clubhouse sells itself on its intimate, unedited nature. In Germany, politicians like pro-business Free Democratic Party (FDP) leader Christian Lindner were the first to take to it. Without the pressure of video, politicians and social media influencers alike can invite participants into an exclusive club: They can talk directly to people with no intermediary, while the medium itself retains a sense of elitism.