In anticipation of a meeting with high-ranking politicians in Berlin, the German District Council raised concerns over the “dramatic” financial health of local governments.
Achim Brötel (CDU), President of the District Council, stated on Monday during an RBB-Inforadio interview, “We have record deficits, unlike anything we have experienced since the formation of the Federal Republic of Germany, and there is no sign of improvement.” He noted that cities, municipalities, and districts are threatening to become incapable of functioning.
According to Brötel, the current assumption involves scrutinizing so-called voluntary tasks-such as public transport (ÖPNV), cultural funding, and support for local associations. However, he strongly disagreed with this approach, asserting that these are not optional services that can simply be cut. He views it as a core duty of municipalities to ensure that all citizens can participate in society.
The CDU politician further argued that strengthening the local foundation is essential to safeguard the democratic rule of law. Brötel issued a strong warning, saying, “Everything we are forced to cut in public services automatically benefits those who already wish for a different state, and against that, we must vehemently resist.”
