The newly established parliamentary inquiry commission tasked with examining the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic has commenced its work. Federal Minister of Health Nina Warken (CDU) views the commission as a suitable tool for analyzing the lessons learned and the necessary preparations for future pandemics.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” Minister Warken emphasized the importance of drawing correct conclusions from the COVID-19 experience and implementing resulting changes. She stated that a systematic investigation is crucial, underscoring the inquiry commission as the appropriate instrument for this process, calling its establishment a “long overdue political step”. The Ministry of Health is providing substantive support for the commission’s work, with a dedicated staff position established to facilitate this.
Former Minister of Health Karl Lauterbach (SPD) also welcomed the commission’s start, noting that while Germany navigated the pandemic relatively well, a thorough analysis is essential. Lauterbach anticipates future pandemics due to increasing global risk and believes a politically balanced assessment is important to avoid narratives from skeptical groups dominating the discourse.
While expressing hope for a consensus across parties, Lauterbach cautioned against expecting full agreement, particularly with the AfD. However, he suggested that consensus among the other parliamentary groups would represent a significant achievement. The coalition government aims to comprehensively address the COVID-19 pandemic and its lasting effects through the work of this parliamentary inquiry.