Berlin – Outgoing Social Democratic Party (SPD) co-leader Saskia Esken has reflected on her tenure at the helm of one of Germany’s major political forces, acknowledging both achievements and areas for improvement as she prepares to step down.
Speaking at the SPD’s federal party conference in Berlin on Saturday, Esken highlighted a strengthened focus on education within the party’s priorities. She asserted that during her leadership, education had been successfully positioned as a central tenet of the SPD’s platform.
Beyond policy, Esken also emphasized efforts to cultivate a more collaborative internal culture. “I believe I also succeeded in strengthening a culture within the SPD that is more focused on working together, on solidarity and on cohesion” she stated in an interview with the Phoenix television network.
Looking ahead, Esken expressed a desire for the SPD to regain broader public support, advocating for increased engagement with citizens, including those who express criticism or pose challenging questions. She suggested that a renewed emphasis on the party’s core principles would be critical for achieving this goal.
During her address to party members, Esken also touched on ongoing concerns regarding gender equality within the SPD. She noted that a truly equitable dynamic between men and women in leadership positions would likely require significantly greater female representation at all levels. “A normal interaction between women and men in top positions will probably only exist when half of the top positions are held by women” she remarked.
Esken concluded by describing her time as party leader as a source of immense pride, reaffirming her commitment to the SPD and its values.
