Federal Gatherings on COVID-19: Unsolved Puzzles Remain
In the face of rising COVID-19 infections, Chancellor Angela Merkel and the Minister Presidents of Germany's states gathered on Monday, November 9, 2020, to discuss potential measures to combat the pandemic.
Since November 2nd, stricter restrictions have been in place across the country. However, no decision on easing or extending these constant contacts was made during the meeting. North Rhine-Westphalian Minister-President Armin Laschet (CDU) confirmed that no decision would be made on Monday. Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder (CSU) echoed this sentiment, stating that it's too early to give the all-clear.
Daniel Günther (CDU), Minister-President of Schleswig-Holstein, suggested that two weeks may not be enough to determine whether easing contacts can be taken from the end of November. A draft resolution from the Chancellery urges citizens to further reduce contacts, with a requirement for all students and teachers to wear masks during lessons and breaks.
Marcel Fratzscher, President of the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW), emphasized the importance of reducing infection numbers for both health and the economy. Gabriel Felbermayr, President of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW), agreed, noting that an extension of measures is bearable, but costs will increase as the holidays approach.
During the meeting, the leaders aimed to introduce targeted measures rather than a nationwide lockdown, focusing on regions with high infection rates. However, specific new contacts were not finalized publicly on that date; discussions were ongoing about strengthening contact restrictions and hygiene rules.
A photo of contact restriction control, provided by dts Nachrichtenagentur, serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against the virus. As Germany navigates these challenging times, its leaders remain committed to finding a balance between health protection and minimizing the impact on the economy and society.
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