Prior to the coalition negotiations set to begin in Berlin on Monday between the Left Party, SPD, and Greens, Green MEP and Green negotiator Sergey Lagodinsky is advocating for a highly pragmatic approach. Speaking to “Spiegel” on Sunday, he stated a core principle: “We must negotiate with purpose, but remain open to results.” Lagodinsky added that if the final outcome is beneficial for Berlin, party members will follow, suggesting the onus is on the negotiators themselves. Both the SPD and the Greens intend to submit the final coalition agreement to a member referendum. Lagodinsky heads the Green working group for Security and Internal Policy, which may not commence the talks until later in the week. He stressed that the negotiations must demonstrate that progressive politics can be fair, secure, and effective, proving this outside of ideological disputes. He emphasized the necessity of negotiating not just for those who voted for them, but for all Berliners, including those who doubted the political combination, stating, “We take that seriously, and we must address those concerns.”
Philmon Ghirmai, co-chair of the Green regional party, echoed this sentiment on Sunday. Ghirmai stated that their discussions with the Left Party and the SPD would begin “with full strength and great responsibility for Berlin,” expressing confidence in achieving a strong result. This agreement, he believes, will convince the members of all three parties and the residents of Berlin. Ghirmai, who is noted to be affiliated with the left wing of the Berlin Greens, heads the regional association alongside Nina Stahr, representing the ‘Real’ faction. Both are part of the main Green negotiating team.
Support for the capital’s coalition process has also been signaled from the federal wing of the SPD’s leftist faction. Ralf Stegner, an SPD member of parliament, offered his support for the meetings, which will be led by SPD Berlin co-regional chairman and co-faction leader Steffen Krach. Stegner told “Spiegel” on Sunday that he wished Krach would approach the negotiations professionally, criticizing certain comments from potential Berlin coalition partners as unhelpful.
While acknowledging that personnel decisions remain difficult, Stegner expressed a desire for the SPD to secure the Interior Ministry portfolio. He stressed that it must be absolutely clear that any form of antisemitism or proximity to organized crime must face zero tolerance within the day-to-day functioning of a government coalition including the SPD, ensuring this commitment goes beyond mere drafted language.
