Elisabeth Kiausch, former Hamburg parliament president, dies at 93

Elisabeth Kiausch, a prominent SPD politician and the first woman to lead a German state parliament, has died at the age of 93. She served as the President of the Hamburg Bürgerschaft from June to September 1987 and again from 1991 to 1993.

Kiausch was a member of the Hamburg Bürgerschaft for 34 years, from 1970 to 2004. Her political career also included serving as Hamburg's Finance Senator during 1987 and 1988. She was noted for her commitment to the city-partnership between Hamburg and St. Petersburg and for initiating the “Jugend im Parlament” program.

Hamburg's current Bürgerschaft President, Carola Veit, described Kiausch as a “passionate democrat and inspiring personality” who encouraged many women to enter politics. Mourning flags have been ordered in Hamburg, and a book of condolences will be available at the City Hall.