Recent observations suggest that eastern Germany maintains a more supportive environment for families with young children compared to the western region. According to the Federal Government’s Commissioner for Eastern Affairs, Elisabeth Kaiser (SPD), this is largely attributable to established childcare infrastructure.
Speaking to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Kaiser noted historical differences in parental roles, stating that in eastern Germany, dual-income households with both parents actively employed were a more common norm. This contrasted with experiences observed in western Germany, where mothers may have spent longer periods at home while fathers primarily engaged in paid work. Kaiser emphasized that these differences continue to be reflected in the current availability and quality of childcare services, which are significantly more robust in the east.
While acknowledging this advantage, Kaiser stressed the importance of actively preserving this foundational support system, ensuring that parents seeking full-time employment can do so effectively. She also highlighted a historical reality within the former East Germany: despite a strong participation of women in the workforce, traditional roles regarding household responsibilities often persisted.
The recent births and impending motherhood of Kaiser herself and Federal Minister of Construction Verena Hubertz (SPD) were viewed positively. Kaiser believes these events send a powerful message to society-that parenthood should not impede career advancement.