On July 16, 2025, the weekly newspaper DIE ZEIT published an interview with Prof. Dr. phil. Nadine Jukschat (Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences) and Dr. Franz Erhard (University of Siegen) on the social science perspective on structural change in Lusatia.The discussion focused on the opportunities and challenges of the energy transition, the social significance of the change and the question of how local communities can be involved in the process. Jukschat and Erhard reported on their research experiences in the BMFTR-funded joint research project BePart. The project conducted ethnographically oriented case studies in two small towns in Saxony and Brandenburg, referred to as “Ostenau” and “Rabenfurt” for reasons of anonymity. In Ostenau, the consequences of economic decline are clearly noticeable – but at the same time, there is also strong civic engagement, for example in the voluntary operation of the local outdoor swimming pool. Rabenfurt, on the other hand, is economically more stable, but here it is mainly local companies and a top-down logic that shape development processes. The two researchers emphasize that structural change means more than just economic promotion: it is also a social and emotional process that evokes memories of the post-reunification period. Many people associate change with uncertainty or loss, which can encourage defensiveness. At the same time, Jukschat and Erhard draw attention to numerous positive approaches – from democratic initiatives to returnees who bring new impetus to their home region. The interview shows that structural change cannot be achieved through technological investment alone – spaces for encounter, recognition of local strengths and genuine opportunities for participation are also crucial.