German Education Minister Admits Government Failed to Meet Expectations, Defends Democracy Program Reform

German Education Minister Karin Prien has acknowledged that the federal government has failed to meet public expectations with its reform policies. In a podcast interview, she stated that the government has not adequately explained the necessity of reforms, especially when they cause initial hardship for citizens.

“

We have raised expectations among many citizens that the government has not yet lived up to.

Prien also criticized the internal dynamics of the current government, suggesting that the way ministers interact with each other "doesn't inspire much enthusiasm for politics." She noted a growing "desire for disruption" in the country, which she believes contributes to the rise in support for the far-right AfD party. Given the AfD's classification as extremist in some states, Prien indicated that a ban on the party remains a potential option.

“

doesn't inspire much enthusiasm for politics

The minister identified a loss of trust from the political center as the greatest threat to democracy. She also defended her proposed overhaul of the "Demokratie leben" program, a nearly 200 million euro initiative. Prien plans to adjust funding guidelines, which could lead to some projects losing their support. She dismissed concerns that this would disproportionately affect left-leaning projects as "somewhat hysterical," calling the idea that this would dismantle democracy "absurd."

“

desire for disruption

The discussion took place during a "One Hour ZEIT With..." event at the University of Hamburg on June 6, 2026, as part of the city's Long Night of ZEIT.

“

somewhat hysterical