The German Minister of State for Culture and Media, Wolfram Weimer, has issued a directive prohibiting the use of gendered language, specifically constructions using asterisks and the “Binnen-I” form, in official correspondence for his 470 employees located in Berlin and Bonn.
Addressing the “Bild am Sonntag” newspaper, Weimer stated that the standard rules of the German language will be observed within the offices of the Federal Chancellery. This includes a return to formal salutations such as “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear Ladies and Gentlemen) in letters, emails and internal memos. The policy also aligns with guidelines established by the Council for German Orthography.
Weimer justified the ban on gendered language, arguing that it doesn’t reflect the prevalent speech patterns within the country and can exacerbate societal divisions. He emphasized the role of language as a unifying force, stating, “Language should connect, not divide.
The Minister further asserted that language serves as a crucial medium for societal understanding and should not be manipulated as an ideological tool. He expressed opposition to prescriptive language instruction and underscored the importance of preserving Germany’s “linguistic culture”. He characterized arbitrary interference through gendered language as unnecessary and detrimental to the beauty and integrity of the German language. The directive clarifies that while this regulation applies to official duties, individuals retain the freedom to express themselves as they choose in personal communication.