The recent failed election of judges in the German Bundestag has ignited a debate regarding the current selection process, with calls for reform now emerging from within government. Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer has publicly advocated for a reassessment of the requirement for two-thirds majorities when electing judges.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” Weimer acknowledged he is not a constitutional lawyer, but expressed his belief that a shift to simple majority voting should be considered. He cited the increasing number of parliamentarians representing more extreme political positions as a key factor driving his suggestion. “We need to think about whether an election of judges should continue to require two-thirds majorities” he stated, adding that those with more extreme views should have as little influence as possible.
The situation, he explained, is a direct consequence of a fundamental shift in the parliamentary landscape. Germany has not previously experienced such a fractured political environment. When the requirement for a two-thirds majority for judicial appointments cannot be achieved through a coalition of mainstream or centrist parties, the risk of the current “unseemly” outcome becomes a real possibility.
This sentiment echoes a recent call for reform from CSU leader Markus Söder, who has also voiced support for allowing judges to be elected with a simple majority vote. The ongoing debate highlights the challenges posed by the changing dynamics within the German parliament and the need to ensure a stable and representative judicial selection process.
