Radio 1: Who Stole the Coconut?

We discuss the criticism of German children’s songs, such as the song “Wer hat die Kokosnuss geklaut.” Journalist Ulrike Nagel has been following the latest controversy in Germany. Listen to the audio clip.

Summary of this conversation

Journalist Ulrike Nagel discusses the controversy surrounding the German children’s song “Wer hat die Kokosnuss geklaut?” on “Bureau Buitenland” on NPO Radio 1

• The Song and the Controversy [00:09]: The song, which most Germans are familiar with, is about a group of monkeys searching for a stolen coconut. In the end, a baby monkey turns out to be the thief. The public broadcaster ZDF stated on an Instagram account that the song is racist because the monkeys are said to represent people with dark skin and colonialism [00:59].
• Criticism of the Interpretation [01:11]: Major media outlets like Bild have criticized ZDF’s interpretation, arguing that no one else would make the connection to racism. Nagel himself has never made that connection either and sees it as a harmless children’s song about animals [00:54].
• “Woke” Debates in Germany [01:19]: This debate is reminiscent of similar “woke” debates in the United States and the Netherlands. In Germany, a smaller country, such a topic takes on greater momentum. In the past, this has already led to revisions in children’s books (such as *Pippi Longstocking*) and changes in language use regarding forms of address. The question is whether this discussion about songs will also have a follow-up [01:42].

The debate over “Wer hat die Kokosnuss geklaut?” illustrates the growing sensitivity surrounding cultural representation and language use, and the role the media plays in this.

On “Bureau Buitenland,” you’ll hear international news, reports, and geopolitical analysis. Featuring background stories and noteworthy tales, Monday through Friday from 1:30 to 2:00 p.m. Hosts: Sophie Derkzen and Tim de Wit

Germany correspondent

Ulrike Nagel