Linnemann Proposes Radical Reform of Civil Service in Germany

The General Secretary of the CDU, Carsten Linnemann, has put forth a proposal for a fundamental reform of the German civil service system. He advocates for a significant reduction in the number of civil servants, suggesting that future appointments should be limited to a few critical sectors.

Linnemann indicated that civil service positions should be reserved for areas that require a strong loyalty to the state, such as law enforcement, firefighting, financial administration, and customs. By narrowing the scope of civil service appointments, he believes the bureaucratic apparatus can be streamlined considerably.

Currently, most civil service appointments occur at the state level, but Linnemann argues that reforms should begin at the federal level. He specifically questioned whether employees in federal ministries should continue to receive civil servant status in the same manner as before, stating that this is not necessary in all cases.

In addition, he highlighted an existing goal to reduce personnel in federal ministries by eight percent by 2029. Data from the Federal Statistical Office indicates that, as of mid-2024, approximately 1.7 million individuals were classified as civil servants, accounting for roughly one-third of all public sector employees. The largest portion of these civil servants consists of educators, followed by administrative staff and police officers.

This initiative emerges amidst growing tensions between the coalition partners, the CDU and the SPD, following a summer characterized by dissatisfaction. The current government, less than four months into its term, is seeking a reorientation. Recent discussions between Chancellor Friedrich Merz and CDU leadership have led to a joint retreat for the leadership of both parties in Würzburg.

As the coalition aims for a "reform autumn," there is a pressing need to address the discontent that has surfaced. Linnemann conveyed concerns to party members about the current political climate, noting that the mood has not met their expectations. He pointed to various issues, such as the electricity tax and the selection of judges for the Federal Constitutional Court, where communication and coordination among party members, the parliamentary faction, and the government have faltered.

Furthermore, Jens Spahn from the CDU has also criticized the coalition for its lack of effective communication. This climate of skepticism and frustration was echoed by Dirk Wiese, the parliamentary manager of the SPD, who noted that unmet commitments have strained relations as they entered the summer recess.

The upcoming retreat in Würzburg is intended to help restore a productive working relationship between the coalition partners. Additionally, a casual barbecue event for the factions is planned for early September to foster a more relaxed atmosphere for collaboration.