Julia Klöckner launches initiative to support women in politics

Bundestag President Julia Klöckner (CDU) has launched a cross-party initiative to address the underrepresentation of women in politics and the rise of hate attacks against female politicians.

In a letter to female members of parliament, Klöckner noted that only 205 of the 630 members of the German Bundestag are women, representing approximately 33 percent. She warned that female politicians are frequently judged more on their appearance and personality than their political positions. Furthermore, she highlighted that hostility, particularly in digital spaces, can become personal, sexualized, and threatening.

Klöckner stated that these factors cause many women to withdraw from politics, especially at the municipal level, or to refrain from running for office altogether. She has invited members to a cross-party exchange on October 6 to discuss political design, visibility, and the shared experiences of women in parliament.