Federal Minister of Justice Stefanie Hubig (SPD) has advocated for enshrining climate adaptation as a shared governmental responsibility within the Basic Law, while also discussing potential changes to tenancy law to provide better heat protection. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, Hubig stressed that protecting citizens from the consequences of climate change must become a major policy priority, noting that other countries are already ahead in this area, and that a collective effort is now required.
The Minister emphasized that this is fundamentally a question of social justice, as the impacts of climate change do not affect all people equally. Vulnerable individuals-including the elderly, children, and those in poverty-are suffering particularly acutely during heat waves. Hubig believes that traditional legal policy can also contribute to heat protection, specifically through modifications to tenancy law. Such changes, she suggested, could make it easier for tenants to install air conditioning units or protective sun blinds in their apartments. Currently, securing necessary building modifications at the residence is complicated, meaning clear and practical regulations are needed for both landlords and tenants.
Hubig strongly called for a joint proposal with the Union party concerning an amendment to the Basic Law. She argued that the federal government, states, and local municipalities must cooperate more closely than they currently do regarding heat protection and adaptation to climate change, as local authorities cannot manage this enormous task alone. She supports Carsten Schneider’s suggestion to officially enshrine climate adaptation as a communal task in the Basic Law, as this would simplify the federal government’s ability to provide sustained support to states and cities for heat protection. The government’s goal should be to quickly agree upon a joint proposal, which can then be put before the Bundestag to garner the necessary constitutional amendment majority. Hubig expressed optimism that a democratic majority could be found in favor of such a constitutional change.
