The leader of Germany’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), Lars Klingbeil, has expressed deep concern over the public reaction surrounding the pregnancy of Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Building, Verena Hubertz.
Klingbeil, also Vice Chancellor, stated his shock at the attacks directed at Hubertz following her recent announcement that she is expecting her first child in January. He emphasized that in 2025, it should be entirely commonplace for government officials, like many working individuals across the country, to become young parents without facing harassment and hostility.
Following the public announcement, Hubertz has reportedly been subjected to considerable negative comments on social media platforms, including remarks questioning her capabilities and motivations.
Klingbeil acknowledged that women in politics continue to experience a heightened level of public scrutiny. He attributed a significant portion of this to sexism that is unacceptable in a modern society. He pointed out the disparities in questioning faced by women compared to their male counterparts and underscored the responsibility of men to actively condemn sexism and misogyny with the same vigor demonstrated by women.
