Overview

• Julia Klöckner, Bundestagspräsidentin, criticized German churches for excessive political engagement, warning they risk becoming 'interchangeable NGOs.'
• Thorsten Frei of the CDU defended Klöckner, arguing that politically active churches must accept criticism as legitimate political actors.
• Opposition leaders, including Lars Castellucci (SPD) and Konstantin von Notz (Greens), rebuked Klöckner, accusing her of undermining churches' societal roles and overstepping her impartial office duties.
• The debate underscores broader tensions in Germany over secularization, with church membership now below 50% and declining influence in political matters.
• Critics from various parties emphasized that churches have a historical role in addressing social justice, human rights, and ethical issues, beyond solely spiritual matters.