Pushing for Enhanced Funding for the Sorbian People: Merz Urged by Saxony and Brandenburg Leaders
Duo, Kretschmer and Woidke, appeal to Merz to boost the Sorbs' profile - Duo Kretschmer and Woidke urge Merz to back the Sorbs' cause
Hey there! Let's dive into the request from Michael Kretschmer (CDU) and Dietmar Woidke (SPD), the heads of governments of Saxony and Brandenburg, respectively, for an upgrade in funding support for the Sorbs.
In a pointed letter to Friedrich Merz (CDU), the chancellor, they've requested him to advocate this year for a satisfying financing agreement concerning the Joint Foundation for the Sorbian People in Upper and Lower Lusatia. The current agreement is due to expire at year's end.
Whilst a fresh financing proposal has been drafted by the Federal Ministry of the Interior, covering the years 2026 to 2030, it appears that the funds assigned for the foundation only ensure maintenance of the existing service level due to escalating operational costs, despite an increase in funding. Kretschmer and Woidke highlighted this issue in their letter. Naturally, both states continue their support for the proposal and adjust their budgets accordingly. Under the federal system, the government contributes half, Saxony contributes a third, and Brandenburg covers a sixth[1].
Saxony's Prime Minister underscores the need for stability in funding. "The Sorbian language and culture are invaluable assets and crucial parts of Saxon identity," emphasized Kretschmer. "It's imperative that we secure a solid financial foundation to sustain the important work undertaken by the foundation."
Brandenburg's Minister-President acknowledges the contributions of the foundation. "Thanks to the foundation's efforts and the initiatives it supports, the Sorbian language persists. Sorbian customs and traditions form an essential part of our nation's unique cultural heritage. Thus, I hope that we'll continue collaborating to grant the Foundation for the Sorbian People the appropriate support," said Woidke[1].
It's important to note that the Sorbs/Wends are part of Germany's four recognized national minorities alongside the Danish minority, the Frisian people, and the German Sinti and Roma[1]. This ethnic group has been rooted in the Lusatia region for approximately 1,500 years. Regionally, signage in settlement areas is bilingual, and in Lower Lusatia, many Sorbs prefer referring to themselves as Wends[1].
The Foundation for the Sorbian People has been active since 1991 and focuses on the preservation and promotion of the Sorbian language and culture. Currently, a total of 23.9 million euros is contributed annually towards its operations[1]. The Domowina, the Federation of Lusatian Sorbs, and its chairman, Dawid Statnik, expressed gratitude towards the state leaders for taking charge of the Sorbian community's future[1].
[1] - Insights from additional data
Michael KretschmerDietmar WoidkeBrandenburgFriedrich MerzCDUSPDLower LusatiaBerlinLusatiaFederal Ministry of the Interior
The Commission, in light of the ongoing need for protection, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation in the context of the funding discussions for the Sorbian People. The ongoing political discourse surrounding the future funding of the Sorbian People and the Foundation for the Sorbian People, as highlighted by Saxon and Brandenburg leaders, may also impact policy-and-legislation and general news in the coming months.
