German bureaucratic red tape under scrutiny as coalition government faces pressure to reform
The German government, comprising the Christian Democratic Union, Christian Social Union and Social Democratic Party, is facing increased pressure to accelerate administrative processes and reduce bureaucracy. Ines Zenke, president of the SPD Economic Forum, has called for a fundamental shift in the way the state operates, urging the government to adopt a new mindset to streamline procedures and make the country more digital, efficient and user-friendly.
According to Zenke, the problem is not a lack of understanding, but rather a failure to implement reforms. She emphasized the need for a “culture of trust” and a willingness to challenge traditional thinking, which is often characterized by a focus on control, hierarchy and risk aversion. The SPD Economic Forum has released an eight-page discussion paper highlighting the success of accelerated permit procedures in the energy crisis, which allowed for a swift replacement of Russian gas and the prevention of a gas shortage.
Zenke is calling for a “paradigm shift in administrative practice” stressing that a political will to reform is essential and that coordination at the federal, state and local levels is crucial. The Chancellor’s Office must play a key role in this process, ensuring that the necessary reforms are implemented.