Support for Minority: Kretschmer and Woidke Urge Merz to Assist the Sorbs

The Sorbs, also known as Wends, have been living in the Lusatia region for approximately 1,500 years. As descendants of Slavic tribes, they maintain their customs and traditions. The states of Brandenburg and Saxony are advocating for continued support for this minority group.

In a letter addressed to the Chancellor, the Minister Presidents of Saxony and Brandenburg, Michael Kretschmer (CDU) and Dietmar Woidke (SPD), respectively, are appealing for adequate funding to bolster the Sorbs. They are urging Friedrich Merz (CDU) to secure a substantial agreement for the joint financing of the Sorbian People's Foundation in Upper and Lower Lusatia before the current agreement expires at the end of this year.

The Federal Ministry of the Interior has proposed a new financial agreement, set to be in effect from 2026 to 2030. While the funding for the foundation is set to increase, Kretschmer and Woidke emphasize that due to rising costs, this would only sustain the current level of operations. Both regions support this draft despite significant fiscal challenges, aligning their financial plans accordingly. Under the proposed arrangement, the federal government would provide 50% of the funding, with Saxony contributing one-third and Brandenburg one-sixth.

Kretschmer has highlighted the need for reliable financial resources, stating that "the Sorbian language and culture constitute a significant treasure and are part of Saxony's identity." He underlines the importance of a stable financial foundation to enable the foundation to continue its essential work.

Woidke has pointed to the foundation's crucial role, noting that it is thanks to its efforts and the initiatives it supports that the Sorbian language is preserved. He asserts that Sorbian customs and traditions are integral to the unique cultural heritage of both states and expresses hope for continued joint efforts to adequately support the work of the Sorbian People's Foundation.

The Sorbs are classified as one of four recognized national minorities in Germany, alongside the Danish minority, the Frisian group, and the Sinti and Roma. They have been established in the Lusatia region for around 1,500 years, with bilingual signage in their settlement areas.

The terms Sorbs and Wends derive from Latin, and many individuals in Lower Lusatia prefer to identify as Wends. Therefore, both terms are used interchangeably in Brandenburg.

Established in 1991, the Sorbian People's Foundation aims to promote and preserve Sorbian language and culture, supporting various institutions and projects. Currently, the total funding amounts to EUR23.9 million annually, as reported by both states. Dawid Statnik, the chairman of Domowina - the Association of Lusatian Sorbs, expressed gratitude to the Minister Presidents for their commitment to securing the future of the Sorbian community.