Overview
- The Bundestag administration confirmed the dissolution of the staff unit for citizens’ councils and said there are currently no political plans for another council.
- A parliamentary spokesperson framed the move as a routine measure for temporary bodies that cease to exist, with staff reassigned to other tasks.
- According to the Greens, the governing parties removed the term “citizens’ council” from the relevant 2026 budget line.
- SPD lawmaker Helge Lindh urges a plan to continue the councils, while civil-society groups warn the decision weakens democratic participation.
- Bundestag President Julia Klöckner has argued that the elected parliament is the country’s “largest citizens’ council,” and organizing partners report no new mandate or contracts.