Calls are growing for Germany’s next Federal President to be a woman, as the current officeholder, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, nears the end of his second term. The Social Democratic Women’s Working Group (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Sozialdemokratischer Frauen) has publicly advocated for a female successor.
Momentum Builds for a Female President
Carmen Wegge, chair of the SPD-Frauen, stated that “We see finally time for a woman in the highest office of the state.” She added that electing a woman would send “a strong signal that equality is not just a goal, but a lived reality,” particularly after twelve men have held the position since the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany.
The Green Party also supports the election of a female president. Bundestagspräsidentin Julia Klöckner (CDU) has expressed her surprise that a woman has not yet held the office at Schloss Bellevue.
Federal Family Minister Karin Prien (CDU) responded to questions about her own potential candidacy with a statement emphasizing her dedication to her current role and service to the country.
What Happens Next?
The 18th Federal Convention must convene no later than February 16, 2027, to decide on the successor to Steinmeier, who is the twelfth Federal President of Germany since 1949. Multiple female candidates will emerge, and a competitive election process could unfold. The outcome will depend on the composition of the Federal Convention and the political dynamics at the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the next Federal President be elected?
The 18th Federal Convention must convene no later than February 16, 2027, to elect the successor to Frank-Walter Steinmeier.
Who has called for a female Federal President?
The Social Democratic Women’s Working Group, the Green Party, and Bundestagspräsidentin Julia Klöckner (CDU) have all expressed support for electing a female Federal President.
How many Federal Presidents have there been since 1949?
There have been twelve Federal Presidents since the founding of the Federal Republic of Germany in 1949.
As Germany looks ahead to the next presidential election, what impact might a historic election of the first female Federal President have on the country’s political landscape?
