Saxony-Anhalt Minister President Pledges Better Conditions for Volunteers
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Saxony-Anhalt's Minister President Sven Schulze aims to improve conditions for volunteers by reducing bureaucracy and strengthening associations.
- Approximately 800,000 people, or 38% of the population aged 14 and over, are currently engaged in volunteer work in the state.
- Schulze stressed the indispensability of volunteerism for social cohesion and assured volunteers of support against hostility or unnecessary hurdles.
Minister President Sven Schulze of Saxony-Anhalt is committed to enhancing the environment for volunteers, stating, "We want to reduce bureaucracy, strengthen associations, and create good conditions so that even more people can get involved." The CDU politician expressed gratitude to individuals contributing their time and effort to clubs, initiatives, fire departments, aid organizations, and church communities. According to the State Chancellery, nearly 38% of Saxony-Anhalt's population aged 14 and above are currently volunteers, totaling almost 800,000 people. The number of young volunteers and those with migration backgrounds has recently increased, and there is also a growing number of volunteers in rural areas. Schulze emphasized that their work deserves respect and recognition, highlighting volunteerism as essential for social cohesion in Saxony-Anhalt. "Anyone who takes responsibility for others should feel supported โ and can be sure that we stand behind them," he stated. He assured that no one should fear hostility or unnecessary obstacles when working for the community. Schulze's initiative aims to foster a more supportive atmosphere for the roughly 800,000 individuals who dedicate their time to various causes across the state, recognizing their vital role in the fabric of society.
We want to reduce bureaucracy, strengthen associations, and create good conditions so that even more people can get involved.
Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.