Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is sticking to his proposal for a social “compulsory time” despite widespread criticism and expects the debate to continue in the autumn.
“It didn’t surprise me that not everyone agreed immediately,” he told the German Press Agency in Berlin. “I perceived the debate in such a way that after a few spontaneous reactions, a pleasingly differentiated weighing of arguments began.” He does not fear that the debate will peter out.
“We don’t know exactly what to expect in the autumn, but it is certain that the question of how we can regain more community spirit will be an urgent one in the autumn,” said Steinmeier. Germany is facing major challenges such as the war in Ukraine, climate change, and secure and affordable energy and food supplies. “We will therefore all have to consider together how we want to live together as a society in the future. I’m sure we will also debate the possibilities and opportunities of compulsory social time.”
Steinmeier had received strong opposition to the debate he had initiated about a social obligation with a service to society. Federal Family Minister Lisa Paus (Greens) and Education Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger (FDP), for example, immediately rejected the proposal.
The Federal President made it clear that he sees a chance for everyone to bridge the growing social distance in society during a mandatory period. “We live in a time when many people grow up and stay in their social bubble, first in school, then in training or studies.” This continues at work and also on social media. He wishes “that we find ways to meet again across the different borders”.
