The German Federal President, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, has affirmed the feasibility of a far-reaching state reform, mirroring proposals put forth by the “Initiative for a Capable State”. Addressing a presentation of the initiative’s final report at Bellevue Palace on Monday, Steinmeier expressed confidence in the potential for substantial improvement within the nation’s governing structures.
“I am convinced that the limits of our state’s effectiveness have neither been precisely measured nor reached” Steinmeier stated. He emphasized the opportunity to foster innovative thinking, demonstrating courage and ultimately creating better systems.
Acknowledging the challenges inherent in such a significant undertaking, the Federal President drew on his own prior experience in government, stating that the nation’s state apparatus is not inherently incapable of reform. He clarified that the presentation of the final report should not be viewed as the conclusion of the reform process, but rather as a transition – transferring expertise to practical implementation. Steinmeier underscored that the responsibility now rests with elected political representatives to advance these proposals.
