Twice a year, federal ministries and institutions open their doors to the public — and this weekend Berlin once again welcomed thousands of visitors. Even with the unpredictable weather, turnout was strong, with ministers ready to answer citizens’ questions.
The federal press service reported that the first day, Saturday, was a great success, drawing crowds to the chancellery and ministries despite persistent rain. On Sunday, with the sun shining, even more people visited the government district.
“Our purpose is to show people what we do, give them a behind-the-scenes perspective, and remind them that democracy only works when everyone participates,” said Deputy Government Spokesman Sebastian Hille.
At the Federal Chancellery, guests could sit at the cabinet table and experience what it feels like to be part of the government. Other institutions also offered insights: at the Defence Ministry, visitors saw Bundeswehr military technology, while the BND presented the secretive work of intelligence gathering.
Fairer taxation
The most spirited debates happened in the “economic section” of the Open Day. Ahead of the promised “autumn of reforms,” CDU/CSU and SPD are clashing over taxation and welfare. Chancellor Friedrich Merz admitted that economic and social policy will demand greater focus in the coming months. “There’s serious work ahead,” he stated.
Finance Minister and SPD leader Lars Klingbeil insisted on urgent social reforms, but only on fair terms. “We must not dismantle the welfare state,” he told citizens. “What will not work is trying to cut €30 billion in social benefits. The solutions must involve everyone.”
Klingbeil stressed once more that wealthier groups, such as high-earning executives, should carry a larger share of taxes. “The state must continue to protect those in need,” he concluded. “Abandoning them is not an option.”
