Land will not exclude anyone in Digital Strategy - Schleswig-Holstein's Digital Strategy 2026 promises faster, simpler public services
Schleswig-Holstein has approved its Digital Strategy 2026, aiming to make public services faster and simpler for residents. A core principle of the plan is the 'once-only' rule, meaning citizens and businesses will no longer need to submit the same information repeatedly to different authorities. The state government, led by a black-green coalition, insists the strategy will ensure digital inclusion for everyone while boosting local innovation and competitiveness.
The newly adopted strategy focuses on creating a unified digital network for public authorities. This system will allow seamless data sharing between agencies, cutting red tape and reducing delays. Officials stress that fragmented digital solutions have caused inefficiencies in the past, and the new approach will bring all stakeholders—from local councils to state departments—under one coordinated framework.
Digitalization Minister Dirk Schrödter (CDU) described the plan as a 'participatory strategy' designed to build a 'digitally cooperative state'. The government has also committed to avoiding a top-down approach, following earlier challenges with open-source projects. SPD lawmaker Kianusch Stender cautioned that past experiences show digitalisation must involve collaboration rather than rigid directives. Beyond streamlining bureaucracy, the strategy seeks to strengthen the regional digital economy. CDU lawmaker Uta Wentzel highlighted its potential to advance future technologies and improve the state's competitiveness. Meanwhile, Green Party representative Sebastian Bonau called for greater digital sovereignty at the municipal level, pushing for secure, high-performance infrastructure that isn't dependent on external providers. Concerns have been raised about accessibility. FDP lawmaker Bernd Buchholz warned that not all citizens currently have the skills or tools to use digital services. He urged the government to implement the changes with sensitivity to avoid leaving anyone behind. The strategy builds on earlier investments, such as the **AnoMed KI-Rechenzentrum** at the University of Lübeck. Funded with €29 million from March 2026, the centre aims to boost research and innovation, though its direct link to public authority networking remains unclear.
The Digital Strategy 2026 sets out clear steps to modernise Schleswig-Holstein's public services through better data sharing and reduced bureaucracy. Authorities will now work on establishing the dedicated network, while ensuring that digital tools remain accessible to all residents. The success of the plan will depend on balancing efficiency with inclusivity, as well as fostering cooperation between state and local levels.
