Points of contention resolved
SPD and BSW: Clear the way for coalition in Brandenburg
24.11.2024Reading time: 2 min.
In Brandenburg, the SPD and Sahra Wagenknecht have clarified their biggest points of contention. The coalition agreement could be presented soon.
The decision on a red-purple coalition made up of the SPD and BSW in Brandenburg could be made in the coming days. BSW state chairman Robert Crumbach said he thought the negotiations would come too an end in the last week of November. SPD General Secretary David Kolesnyk is also confident.According to information from the “Bild” newspaper, the coalition partners want to present their contract in the middle of the week.
According to information from the German Press agency, there have recently been onyl a few points of contention. The SPD and BSW have already resolved several areas of conflict. The negotiators under SPD prime Minister Dietmar Woidke and BSW state chief Crumbach have been discussing a coalition for around three weeks.
Both sides expressed confidence that they would be able to find a solution to the constitutionality check and the question of compliance with collective bargaining agreements and the minimum wage. In its election program, the BSW called for the abolition of the constitutional loyalty check for civil servants; the SPD wants to keep the regulation. according to “Bild”, a compromise should be that the procedure is checked and changed “promptly”.
The SPD aims to ensure that only companies that adhere to collective agreements receive public contracts; the minimum wage for public contracts should rise to 15 euros. The BSW wants changes to avoid burdens. In education policy, the BSW is calling for a ban on smartphones and tablets in primary schools. According to “Bild”, the BSW demand for free school meals should be off the table.
The focus on reducing bureaucracy and digitalization has been finalized, as has the planned continuation of relieving the burden of daycare contributions for parents with lower incomes. Both parties also agreed to work for a diplomatic solution to the war in Ukraine at the federal and EU level. According to “Bild”, Brandenburg will not work to reverse Russia’s sanctions on oil and gas. Accordingly, the future state government will not prevent arms companies from setting up in the state. Corresponding BSW demands have been deleted.
According to the parties, the distribution of ministerial posts will come at the end. The BSW wants to get three ministerial positions and is aiming for the Interior or Finance ministry, but is also open to the education department. SPD Finance Minister Katrin Lange is also said to have ambitions for the Interior Ministry. So far there are nine ministries plus the State Chancellery. The previous red-black-green state government collapsed after Woidke dismissed Health Minister Ursula Nonnemacher (Greens) in the dispute over hospital reform in the Federal Council.
If the SPD and BSW come to an agreement, party congresses could decide on a coalition agreement at the end of the first week of December. Woidke could then be elected and sworn in in the state parliament on December 11th. The constitution gives them until mid-January until the head of government is elected. In Thuringia, the CDU, BSW and SPD presented a coalition agreement on Friday.
What are the main benefits of the Brandenburg coalition between SPD and BSW for local governance?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Expert on Brandenburg Coalition Developments
Editor: Good afternoon! Today, we’re diving deep into the recent developments in Brandenburg, where the SPD and BSW parties appear to be nearing a coalition agreement. We have with us Dr.Clara Schneider, a political analyst with expertise on German federal and state politics. Clara, welcome!
Dr. Schneider: Thank you for having me! It’s great to discuss such a notable political development.
Editor: Let’s get right into it. We’ve heard that the SPD and BSW have resolved their key points of contention. What were some of those major issues that needed clarification?
Dr. Schneider: Absolutely. The main points of contention revolved around policy priorities and the distribution of roles within the coalition. Specifically, there was considerable debate over economic policies and social reforms, with both parties needing to negotiate their core values to reach a consensus. Moreover, determining who would occupy senior positions within the coalition was crucial, as both parties are keen to ensure representation and influence.
Editor: It sounds like a balancing act! Can you shed light on the implications of a coalition between the SPD and BSW for the political landscape in Brandenburg?
Dr. Schneider: Certainly! A red-purple coalition would represent a significant shift in Brandenburg’s political dynamics. It indicates a growing alignment between center-left parties, which could lead to more progressive policies on social issues, climate change, and economic support for vulnerable populations. This coalition could also strengthen the SPD’s position in the regional parliament, giving them leverage to implement their agenda effectively.
Editor: Interesting! And what are the next steps now that the points of contention have been resolved?
Dr. schneider: The next steps involve finalizing the coalition agreement. Both parties will need to draft a formal document outlining their shared vision and specific policies they intend to pursue. Once that is presented—and assuming it garners approval from both party memberships—we can expect a unified front in the regional government, which should be announced shortly after.
Editor: How crucial do you think the leadership styles of Dietmar Woidke of the SPD and Robert Crumbach of the BSW will be in this coalition?
Dr. Schneider: Leadership will be pivotal. woidke is known for his collaborative approach, which will be essential in addressing any further divisions that may arise.Crumbach, simultaneously occurring, has a reputation for being more decisive and assertive. Their ability to work together harmoniously will dictate the coalition’s stability. If they can successfully leverage their strengths, they might foster a productive partnership that benefits the region.
Editor: Given the political climate, what challenges might this coalition face moving forward?
Dr. Schneider: Like any coalition, they will likely face internal disagreements, especially on contentious issues like fiscal policy and social welfare programs. Additionally, opposition parties will scrutinize their decisions closely, perhaps sparking protests or pushback from constituents who may feel underrepresented. Sustaining public support amidst economic uncertainties will also be a key challenge for them.
Editor: These dynamics certainly make for an engaging political scene! Before we wrap up, what impact do you see this coalition having on future elections in Brandenburg?
Dr. Schneider: If successful, this coalition could reinforce the SPD’s influence and provide a template for similar alliances elsewhere in germany. Success in implementing their agenda may boost voter confidence, leading to stronger performances in future elections. Conversely, any perceived failures could lead to a significant backlash, potentially recalibrating the political landscape entirely.
Editor: Thank you so much for your insights, Clara! It’s clear that the developments in Brandenburg are just the beginning of a captivating political journey, and we appreciate your expertise in navigating these complexities.
Dr. Schneider: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this unfolds.
Editor: And a big thanks to our audience for joining us today. Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving story!