A directive has been issued by the German Minister of State for Culture, Wolfram Weimer, prohibiting the use of gendered language constructs, specifically those utilizing asterisks or the “Binnen-I” system, in official correspondence for his 470 employees within the Chancellery in Berlin and Bonn.
Minister Weimer stated that communication emanating from the Office for Culture and Media within the Chancellery will adhere to standard German language conventions. This includes utilizing the formal salutation “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear Ladies and Gentlemen) rather than gender-neutral alternatives. The move also aligns with guidelines established by the Council for German Orthography.
Weimer defended the regulation, arguing that imposed gendered language does not reflect the prevailing speech patterns in Germany and can exacerbate societal divisions. His perspective emphasizes that language should serve as a tool for connection and understanding, rather than a platform for ideological expression.
The minister stressed the importance of language as a vital medium for social cohesion, rejecting what he termed “patronizing language instruction”. He further expressed concern about preserving Germany’s rich linguistic heritage, characterizing arbitrary interventions through gendered language as unnecessary and detrimental to the beauty of the language. While this regulation applies to official communication, Minister Weimer affirmed that individuals remain free to express themselves as they choose in their private interactions.