Development Minister Svenja Schulze reflects on three years of German development policy amid challenges posed by the Assad regime’s fall in Syria. Emphasizing the need for a respectful partnership with developing countries, Schulze faces criticism at home over budget cuts while advocating for continued support amidst rising inequality. The article discusses her international engagements, including initiatives for women’s rights and climate projects, as well as the controversies surrounding funding allocated for development in Peru. The future of development aid remains uncertain as Germany prepares for upcoming elections.