Friedrich Ebert Foundation
German-British Relations and Social Democracy
As the UK departs from the EU, it is important that we ask key questions such as ‘how do we continue to encourage exchange and mutual trust between Germany and the UK in the future?’ The animation we have created for the Friedrich Ebert Foundation proposes these questions while highlighting the shared culture and values that unite the UK and Germany, emphasising a message of democracy and international cooperation.
The Scrapbook
The challenge
Our animation took the place of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation’s annual dialogue, and was aimed at an audience of politicians, NGO political organisations and more broadly people with an interest in politics, civil society and international relations. It was crucial that the animation raised awareness about the importance of German-British relations and reinforced the values shared by Germany and the UK.
The film
To bring the message of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation to the screen, we used a carefully written script and rich, relatable imagery. Over four minutes, the animation explained the history that Germany and the UK share, the challenges we all face and the solutions which can foster stronger relations. A well-written script and approachable yet professional voiceover were brought to life by visuals. The recurring metaphor of a bridge was used to reflect the relationship between Germany and the UK historically, at present, and in the future. This metaphor was supported by rich imagery drawing from culture, sport and history - communicating the points made by the voiceover in a way which was memorable and relatable. The capacity of whiteboard animation to map information in space can be seen in areas such as the mountain metaphor, which both encompassed the power of cooperation and the challenges the world faces. The narrative was complex and nuanced, and the effective use of animation allowed us to reflect and embody this, connecting imagery and points together in a way that was dynamic and engaging.
The relatability and relevance of the film was enhanced by the use of well-known reference points such as the Berlin Wall and Banksy artwork, and was enhanced by a wide range of characters and familiar settings. Accessibility was widened through the creation of German subtitles. Ending in a strong message, the animation reflected the history and importance of good relations, taking an optimistic and progressive tone – taking the place of the annual dialogue.
About the client
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation is a foundation for social democracy which was created in 1925 by Germany's first democratically elected German President, Friedrich Ebert. Their aim is to support and strengthen social democracy through methods such as political education, think tanks and international cooperation.
The context
Get involved with Friedrich Ebert Foundation and submit your thoughts on strengthening British-German relations here.
