1) The role of the Roman Pontiff is to resolve disputes among the world’s bishops. Here is a dispute. The Pope has not resolved it; he’s told the bishops involved to try to resolve it by themselves.
Isn’t having the German bishops work together considered subsidiarity? The correct minority shouldn’t back down, and thus unanimity will never be reached.
It is true this discussion really should be held in the first place, but acting as a “brother bishop” and not the “authoritarian” reminds the fraternity of bishops of the deep responsibility in their own dioceses, as well as the need for unity with the Pope.
I thought unanimity was the current rule for bishops conferences on doctrinal questions anyways.