The German Federal Minister for Housing, Urban Development and Construction, Verena Hubertz, is considering how she will balance her responsibilities as a mother with her public role following the birth of her child.
In a recent interview with the weekly magazine “Die Zeit” Minister Hubertz expressed her intention to return to her official duties after the period of parental leave. She stated her belief that her position, held for a limited term of four years, would be unconventional if she were to take a full year of parental leave.
Addressing questions regarding her potential role as a role model, Hubertz acknowledged the consideration would be a future one, focusing on the practicalities and her own well-being once the child is born. She highlighted the ongoing reality that many employers still view pregnancy primarily as a disruption to workflow.
Hubertz, who assumed the position of Federal Minister on May 6, 2025, within the cabinet led by Friedrich Merz, is only the third German minister to be expecting a child while in office. Her experience is anticipated to further contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding work-life balance and societal expectations for working mothers in leadership roles.
