A dispute is brewing among Germany’s federal states regarding the scheduling of summer school holidays, specifically concerning the tradition of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg commencing their breaks later than other regions. Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder, of the CSU party, has firmly defended the existing arrangement and suggested potential implications for financial equalization payments between states.
Speaking to Bild newspaper, Söder stated that the established system, which typically sees Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg begin their summer holidays in early August, will remain unchanged. He characterized the timing as a natural fit with the region’s rhythm and rejected demands from other states advocating for an earlier start to Bavarian summer breaks.
“We, in Bavaria, determine when our holidays are” Söder declared. “We contribute significantly to the financial equalization system that supports numerous other states. The expectation that individual states should now dictate our holiday schedules is simply unacceptable. There’s a limit to what is reasonable.
He reiterated Bavaria’s commitment to maintaining the current schedule and wished everyone a pleasant vacation, emphasizing that Bavaria would stand by its established regulations. The issue highlights differing priorities and financial considerations within the German federal system.