German Parliament Weekly Update

German Parliament Weekly Update

The German federal government has been actively working on various initiatives to improve the quality of life for its citizens. Here's a roundup of some of the most significant developments across several key areas.

Support for LGBTQ+ Community

The National Action Plan "Queer Living" is currently active, aiming to strengthen acceptance and legal rights for LGBTQ+ people in Germany. With 131 measures, the plan covers areas such as legal recognition, anti-discrimination, health, and social inclusion. The Self-Determination Act, allowing trans, inter, and non-binary individuals to change their gender entry by self-declaration, was recently passed, and the blood donation ban for gay, bisexual men, and trans* people will be lifted in September 2025. 1

However, challenges remain, with an increase in violence against LGBTQ+ people and political resistance. 13 Despite these hurdles, the Action Plan serves as a comprehensive framework to support queer life and rights in Germany.

Strengthening Science Communication

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of effective science communication in crisis management. The coalition proposal aims to systematically and comprehensively strengthen science communication, focusing on participatory approaches in knowledge transfer and giving greater consideration in research funding and the performance evaluation of researchers and scientific institutions. 2

Improvements in Education and Vocational Training

In the realm of education, students will now have the flexibility to study beyond the regular study time without providing reasons (flexibility semester). The Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) is being improved to better adapt funding to study behavior and make it more flexible.

Part-time vocational training, standardized bilingual model contracts and training agreements, simplified admission procedures, and clarification of financing issues are also being introduced to make vocational training more accessible. 4

Postal Services and Delivery Updates

The new postal law puts a stronger emphasis on sustainability, allowing users to trace the greenhouse gas emissions of their parcel deliveries through a voluntary environmental label. Delivery times for letters may be extended in the future, but with the promise of increased reliability. 5

Heavier packages weighing over 20 kg may only be carried by two persons or with the use of suitable aids in the future. The draft bill also aims to reduce bureaucracy, make vocational training achievements more visible through digital means, and establish a new procedure for determining and certifying individual vocational skills acquired independently of a formal vocational training certificate. 5

Support for Parents and Families

To support more young people and those who receive partial funding, the allowances for parental income will be increased by 5.25 percent. The draft bill of the federal government for the 29th Amendment aims to introduce a study start aid of 1,000 euros for students whose parents receive unemployment benefit or housing benefit. 6

The government is also working towards recognizing and treating rainbow families equally, as per the Action Plan "Queer Life". 7

Other Notable Initiatives

The National Action Plan against Homelessness aims to overcome homelessness in Germany by 2030. The draft bill of the federal government for the amendment of the KapMuG is aimed at accelerating the model procedure at the Higher Regional Courts and includes the crypto sector and investment information in crowdfunding projects. 8

The 2023 Environmental Report focuses on measures taken and planned by the federal government to address pressures on the climate, water, soil, air, and nature. 9

Protection from so-called conversion therapies is to be legally secured, as part of the Action Plan "Queer Life". 7

If researchers are attacked or threatened in public for their statements, they should receive comprehensive and swift support, according to the coalition proposal. 10

The draft bill aims to collect and publish building starts and completions monthly and quarterly, and to set up an evaluation system at the Federal Statistical Office. 11

Footnotes:

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Promoting Renewable Energy and Sustainable Living

The German government aims to facilitate a transition to renewable energy sources by increasing investments in wind and solar power, pursuant to the coalition agreement. The Climate Protection Program 2030 outlines a series of ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 12

In response to rising concerns about climate change, the government is promoting sustainable lifestyles, including the improvement of energy-efficient buildings and the deployment of smart home technologies. 13

Green bonds are being issued to fund climate and environmental projects, allowing investors to contribute to combating climate change while achieving favorable returns. 14

Strengthening Climate Change Policy

The German government plans to implement a climate law, setting legally binding targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The law will also include provisions for transparency, accountability, and public participation. 15

Fostering Environmental Science and Technology

The Climate Change Initiative of the Helmholtz Association aims to develop innovative solutions for climate protection, response, and adaptation. The initiative focuses on research areas such as climate modeling, carbon cycle research, and environmental technologies. 16

Encouraging Financial Innovations for Environmental Goals

To support the transition to a low-carbon economy, the government is promoting green finance and encouraging banks to allocate a certain percentage of their balance sheets to environmentally friendly investments. 17

Supporting Businesses and Industries

Targeted support measures are being developed to help businesses and industries transition to more sustainable practices, such as cutting carbon emissions, reducing waste, and promoting circular economy principles. 18

Strengthening the Housing Market

The German government is working to increase the supply of affordable housing through various measures such as reducing bureaucratic obstacles, incentivizing the construction of new housing units, and investing in social housing projects. 19

Addressing Policy and Legislation

The government is reviewing and strengthening regulations to ensure they support the transition to a low-carbon economy, improve energy efficiency, and promote sustainable practices across different sectors. 20

Fostering Data Analytics and Cloud Computing

The German government is promoting the adoption of data analytics and cloud computing in various sectors, such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies, with the aim of improving operational efficiency and innovation. 21

Education, Self-Development, and Career Growth

The government is investing in various programs to improve access to education, provide skills training, and support career development, focusing on in-demand areas like technology, science, and renewable energy. 22

Job Search Assistance and Employment Policies

The German government has introduced measures to help job seekers find employment, such as improved job matching services, training programs, and subsidies for hiring new employees. 23

Supporting Sports and Personal Well-being

The German government is promoting sports as a means of fostering personal well-being, including by providing funding for sports infrastructure, supporting grassroots sports initiatives, and sponsoring major sporting events. 24

Promoting Weather Forecasting and Sports Analysis

To improve the accuracy of weather forecasting, the German government is investing in state-of-the-art technology and data analysis tools. These advancements also benefit sports analysis, enabling athletes and coaches to make data-driven decisions. 25

Regulating Sports Betting and Gaming

The German government is reviewing its policies on sports betting and gaming, with the aim of ensuring proper regulation and consumer protection. 26

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