Efforts are underway in the German Bundestag to enhance conditions for women’s participation in political life, particularly concerning the integration of family responsibilities. Federal Minister for Family Affairs, Karin Prien, has emphasized the necessity of enabling individuals to effectively combine parliamentary duties with raising children.
“Office and family – these things must be possible together” Minister Prien stated, highlighting the importance of ensuring that the needs of parents with young children are reflected in the democratic process. She argued that a more diverse representation of life experiences within the legislature strengthens democracy. The presence of a higher proportion of women in politics, she added, demonstrably fosters a more cooperative, inclusive and solution-oriented political culture.
The recent appearance of Green Party parliamentarian Hanna Steinmüller delivering a plenary speech while carrying her baby – a first in the Bundestag – ignited a broader conversation about the challenges of reconciling family and political engagement. This event prompted a re-evaluation of the practical realities faced by parents in public office.
Responding to this discussion, Bundestag President Julia Klöckner has announced plans to improve working conditions for lawmakers with young children. A spokesperson for the Bundestag conveyed Klöckner’s commitment to increasing accessibility and facilitating a better balance between parliamentary duties and the needs of parents with infants.
Following Steinmüller’s speech, a meeting was held at Klöckner’s invitation, bringing together representatives from all parliamentary factions who are parents of young children. The purpose of this forum was to gather further proposals for improving the compatibility of parliamentary mandates and family life within the legislature. The focus remains on identifying structural, cultural and financial adjustments to better support parental involvement in German politics.