Philipp Türmer, the federal chairman of the Jusos, advocates that Federal Minister Verena Hubertz (SPD) halt the planned legislation aimed at banning the nationalization of property. Calling the prohibition on such measures a “foolish idea,” Türmer told RTL and ntv that he doubted whether such a ban could be legally enforced. He stated, “I do not believe it is honestly justifiable from a legal perspective, nor do I find it sensible.”
Türmer drew attention to past expropriations conducted for infrastructure projects, such as highways. He argued that housing should be viewed as an essential public service, maintaining that the attempt to organize it purely through private means has failed. From the Jusos’ perspective, nationalization is a legitimate tool for regaining state control over the housing market. “If they are allowed to expropriate land for roads or railway lines, they can also expropriate land to ensure people can live in good conditions,” Türmer insisted.
Regarding criticisms that the SPD in the federal government opposes nationalization, Türmer conceded, “Yes, perhaps that is a mistake.” He defended the SPD’s stance by pointing to their manifesto, which explicitly stated their intent to use all means necessary to bring the housing market under control. He forcefully asserted that housing is a fundamental human right, and the actions of private housing associations in this regard are completely unacceptable. Consequently, he added, it should not surprise citizens if a majority votes in favor of socializing housing.
