Maria Furtwängler in Conversation: 'There are plenty who'd like to turn back the clock on feminism'

When Maria Furtwängler walks into a room, there's a distinct blend of elegant reserve and a clarity of purpose you rarely encounter. The actor, doctor, and one of Germany's most prominent women recently sat down for a chat where she didn't mince her words. The conversation touched on power, outdated gender roles, and one particularly resonant statement: "There are plenty who'd like to turn back the clock on feminism."

A woman who ruffles feathers – and does it deliberately

She's known to many as the detective from TV's "Crime Scene" (Tatort), as the face of the MaLisa Foundation she co-founded with her daughter, and as one of the few voices in German television consistently championing gender equality. But what really drives Maria Furtwängler? As the discussion unfolded, it became clear: it's a deep frustration with how casually patriarchal structures keep being reinforced. She spoke of a noticeable counter-movement in recent years – a "backlash" trying to claw back hard-won freedoms.

"Feminism isn't a luxury, it's a survival strategy"

A particularly powerful moment came when she touched on her own life story. A qualified doctor who has practised alongside her acting career, she knows firsthand what she's talking about when it comes to systemic disadvantage. She shared stories of female colleagues overlooked for leadership roles, of young girls still being squeezed into restrictive stereotypes. And then came that line, hitting with the force of a thunderclap: "There are plenty who'd like to turn back the clock on feminism, because it challenges them."

• Her take: The fear of losing power is a major concern for many men – and some women, too.
• Her tool: The MaLisa Foundation, which through research and projects consistently lifts the lid on uncomfortable truths.
• Her motivation: The firm belief that a fairer society ultimately benefits everyone.

Why right now? A look at Switzerland and Germany

This debate isn't confined to Germany. We're seeing very similar conversations play out in Switzerland: about the female pension age, unpaid care work, and representation in the boardroom. Maria Furtwängler made it clear she sees these as European phenomena. It's a "cultural rollback," she says, cutting across all social strata. That makes it all the more vital to keep at it – not with a wagging finger, but with sharp analysis and a touch of humour. And yes, she laughed when asked about her own dual career: "Maybe it's exactly this tension of living in different worlds that keeps me going."

You get the sense: this is a woman unafraid of conflict. She'll even seek it out if it serves the cause. Whether as an actor in front of the camera or as an activist behind the scenes, Maria Furtwängler remains someone who pays close attention. And who reminds us that feminism isn't just a buzzword; it's a stance. A stance well worth defending – especially now.