The newly established parliamentary inquiry commission tasked with examining the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic has commenced its work. The commission’s formation signals a commitment to systematically analyze the pandemic’s impact and inform future preparedness efforts.
Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) emphasized the importance of learning from the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that the inquiry commission provides the appropriate framework for drawing valuable conclusions and implementing necessary improvements. The ministry is actively supporting the commission’s work through the creation of a dedicated staff position.
Former Health Minister Karl Lauterbach (SPD) also welcomed the commission’s launch, acknowledging that while Germany navigated the pandemic reasonably well, a thorough review is essential. He highlighted the increasing global pandemic risk and the inevitability of future outbreaks, underscoring the need for lessons learned.
Lauterbach further stressed the significance of a balanced, politically neutral review process to avoid the pandemic narrative being dominated by skeptical viewpoints. While he expressed reservations about achieving a unanimous consensus across all parties, particularly involving the AfD, he noted that agreement among other parliamentary groups would represent a substantial step forward.
The initiative to scrutinize the pandemic and its repercussions is being spearheaded by the governing coalition, underscoring a commitment to transparency and future-proofing Germany’s public health infrastructure.
