German Leaders Push for Comprehensive Review of Pandemic Policies

Calls for an in-depth analysis of COVID-19 responses grow, with proposals for citizen councils and parliamentary inquiries to rebuild public trust.

Bundestagsvizepräsidentin Katrin Göring-Eckardt has called for a thorough and transparent review of Germany's pandemic policies, emphasizing the need for unity and reflection.
Health Minister Karl Lauterbach admitted it was a mistake not to conduct a pandemic review earlier and stressed its importance for future preparedness.
Proposals for the review include a citizen council, a parliamentary inquiry, and a potential commission led by President Frank-Walter Steinmeier if the new government does not act promptly.
Critics have highlighted the pandemic's impact on trust in democratic institutions and questioned the proportionality of certain measures, such as prolonged school closures.
Leaders from across the political spectrum agree that lessons must be drawn to improve responses to future crises, with some acknowledging past errors in decision-making.