I have attempted a brief review of some of the main lines of development and underlying conditions that today determine Berlin's urban development and the policy of its local government. It has become clear that this policy has to pick a difficult path between the goal of getting back to being only one city again, developing Berlin as the capital of Germany and a European metropolis, and re-establishing and maintaining social consensus in the city, i.e. preventing poverty, segregation, and slum conditions in urban districts. Success will require political perspicacity, stability, and a willingness to compromise that finds acceptance among the population and in industry and commerce. Success will also depend on adequate visions in urban planning and development, in conjunction with a pragmatic ability to leave the city habitable, to make it habitable, and to create a distinct identity for it in the minds of inhabitants and visitors. Finally, it naturally requires ample funding if it is to continue to function.
Berlin has very little leeway.
The enormous efforts made in recent years are, however, likely to pay off in the long run. From the point of view of resources and location, the city is extremely favourably placed to develop into an attractive European metropolis able to perform its function as capital city to the full. But this process will take longer than most have so far hoped.