The Federal Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Construction, Verena Hubertz, is currently considering how she will balance her return to public office with her responsibilities as a mother following the birth of her child.
Speaking in the latest edition of the weekly magazine “Die Zeit” Minister Hubertz expressed her intention to resume her duties after the period of maternity leave. She stated that her role, as with all ministerial positions, is a temporary one, lasting four years and that taking a full year of parental leave might seem incongruous.
Addressing the potential for serving as a role model, Hubertz indicated she will evaluate this aspect once her child is born and she has a clearer understanding of the practicalities and personal impact of combining motherhood with her demanding professional responsibilities. She acknowledged that, regrettably, many employers still view pregnancy primarily as a disruption to operational workflows.
Minister Hubertz, who assumed office on May 6th, 2025, is only the third female minister in Germany to be expecting a child while serving in a government position. She holds the portfolio within the cabinet led by Friedrich Merz.