Germania

State Election Saxony 2024

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The minimum wage is the statutory minimum amount that employees must earn per hour. An increase to 14 euros would improve the income situation of many and reduce poverty. However, critics warn of financial burdens for small and medium-sized companies, job losses and higher prices. They also fear that fewer low-skilled workers will be hired.

So far, Bremen is the only federal state to have a fund into which all companies pay and from which companies that provide training are supported. It would have a similar effect if companies had to pay a penalty if they did not provide training. This is intended to make it more attractive for companies to take on trainees, as they would otherwise receive less money or have to pay fines. Criticism comes mainly from the companies themselves: The bureaucratic burden is disproportionately high.

The idea is to only award public contracts to companies that pay according to or above collective agreements. This is intended to promote fair working conditions. Supporters say that this will prevent wage dumping and ensure fair wages. Opponents fear that competition will be restricted and the costs of public projects increased. They say that smaller companies that cannot afford collectively agreed wages would be disadvantaged and therefore have less chance of winning contracts.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Germany and other Western countries have imposed comprehensive sanctions against Russia, including trade restrictions and the freezing of Russian assets. Some are calling for the sanctions to be lifted to allow cheaper gas supplies from Russia. This could also create the basis for new negotiations to end the conflict. Opponents of lifting the sanctions emphasize that they are an important means of exerting pressure on Russia to make political changes. Maintaining the sanctions sends a strong signal against violations of international law and military aggression and contributes to security and stability in Europe.

Permanent border controls with Poland and the Czech Republic are intended to increase security and prevent illegal entry. Supporters say that this will help to curb crime and smuggling. Opponents criticize that such controls would impair the movement of goods and tourism and cause high costs. They see this as a return to closed borders within Europe, which contradicts the idea of the EU.

LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer and encompasses various sexual orientations and gender identities. The question is whether Saxony should actively contribute to education about sexual diversity through school programs in order to promote acceptance and tolerance, or whether this is solely a matter for parents. Advocates say that education about sexual diversity helps to ensure that different lifestyles are accepted and tolerated. They say that education can help break down prejudice and discrimination and make LGBTQ young people feel accepted and understood. Opponents say that parents should decide what is taught to children on this topic. They believe that children will become confused if they are confronted with the topic too early. They also believe that schools should focus on traditional content and that sexual orientation education is not as important.

Some federal states offer free daycare, others do not. Saxony is one of the federal states in which daycare attendance is subject to a fee. The fees for a daycare place vary depending on the municipality and provider, which leads to a financial burden for many families. Advocates of free childcare argue that this would relieve the burden on low-income families in particular and improve equal opportunities for all children. Critics, on the other hand, point to the high costs that would be incurred by the country as a result of a complete exemption from fees and fear that other important areas of public funding could suffer as a result.

The standardization of curricula in all 16 federal states is intended to ensure greater comparability and equal opportunities in the education system. Supporters argue that this will make it easier to change schools within Germany and harmonize educational standards. Opponents fear that regional characteristics and the educational autonomy of the federal states could be lost. They also see the danger of excessive centralization and bureaucratization of the education system.

A ban on smartphones in elementary school is intended to reduce distractions and negative influences on children. Supporters argue that this would promote concentration and social interaction. Opponents, on the other hand, see the ban as unrealistic and emphasize that the use of digital media should be learned at an early age. They argue that it would be better to integrate the sensible use of smartphones into lessons.

Lowering the voting age to 14 for state elections is being discussed, as young people are of religious and criminal age from this age. Supporters argue that young people should be involved in political decisions and that this contributes to intergenerational justice. Opponents are of the opinion that 14-year-olds are not yet mature enough to fully understand the consequences of their voting decisions. There are also fears that younger voters could be more susceptible to fake news.

The right to vote for non-EU citizens in local elections is intended to promote their political participation and integration. Supporters argue that these people have often lived in Germany for a long time and are affected by local political decisions. Opponents argue that the right to vote should remain linked to citizenship and fear that this would otherwise dilute national sovereignty. They argue that naturalization is the right path to full political participation.

The so-called Säxit means that Saxony will leave the Federal Republic of Germany. Those in favor say that Saxony would have more freedom and decision-making power over its own affairs as a separate state. They believe that independence would better serve the interests of the region and could lead to a stronger identity and self-determination. Opponents say that leaving the Federal Republic of Germany would bring many disadvantages. They believe that Saxony, as part of the Federal Republic, benefits from a stable political system, economic support and a common security policy. They fear that the rule of law could disintegrate after an exit. It could also lead to economic uncertainty and diplomatic isolation. And they believe that Saxony's challenges and problems can be better solved in cooperation with Germany.

Electricity is generated from a variety of energy sources. The fossil fuel coal is also used to produce electricity in Germany and Thuringia. The use of coal as an energy source until at least 2038 is a controversial issue. Supporters of this measure argue that coal-fired power plants ensure a stable and reliable energy supply, especially during the transition period to renewable energies. They emphasize that a premature phase-out of coal-fired power generation could jeopardize jobs and affect economic stability in regions with coal mining and power generation. Opponents, on the other hand, point to the considerable environmental impact of burning coal, such as the high CO2 emissions and the associated climate impact. They are calling for a rapid phase-out of coal-fired power generation in order to reduce the negative health effects of air pollution and combat climate change.

Land transfer tax is payable when buying a property or land. It is added to the purchase price and varies from state to state. In Saxony, it is 5.5 percent. Supporters of abolishing it say that it would make buying a property easier and reduce the cost of home ownership. This would be a real financial relief for first-time buyers and young families. If the land transfer tax is abolished, it could boost the real estate market and promote housing construction. This would ease the housing situation in the long term. Opponents say that the land transfer tax is an important source of income for the federal states. It is used to finance public tasks and infrastructure projects. They say that abolishing the tax could lead to financial bottlenecks. Either cuts would have to be made in other areas or new taxes would be introduced. They also believe that the land transfer tax curbs speculative purchases and an overheated real estate market.

The abolition of property tax would mean that owners of land and property would no longer have to pay an annual tax on their property. Supporters argue that this could reduce the financial burden on owners and relieve the housing market. Opponents, however, fear that this would mean a loss of important revenue for local authorities, which is needed for public services and infrastructure. In addition, the abolition of property tax could lead to inequality, as wealthy property owners would benefit disproportionately.

The debt brake, which severely limits new government borrowing, has been a controversial topic for years. Supporters of its abolition argue that in times of low interest rates and urgent investment needs in areas such as climate protection, digitalization and education, the strict rules of the debt brake are a hindrance. They see flexibilization as an opportunity to make necessary investments in the future and thus promote long-term economic growth. However, opponents of the abolition warn against an uncontrolled debt policy that could burden future generations and jeopardize the financial stability of the state. They emphasize that the debt brake promotes discipline in budgetary policy and thus ensures sound public finances in the long term.

The broadcasting fee to finance public service broadcasting must be paid by everyone who is registered in Germany. Currently, every household has to pay 18.36 euros per month to finance television or radio stations and other forms of public service broadcasting. Some are calling for the broadcasting fee to be abolished altogether: they want to decide for themselves which formats they spend their money on and criticize the broadcasters' behaviour in the past. However, opponents of such a move argue that public service broadcasting is necessary to ensure independent journalism. This is only possible with financial security.

A committee of inquiry into the coronavirus measures in Saxony is to review and evaluate the decisions and measures taken during the pandemic. Supporters say that a transparent review is important in order to learn from possible mistakes and strengthen trust in politics. Opponents fear that such a committee could be politically motivated and take up a lot of time and resources without providing any new insights. They argue that the existing mechanisms for evaluation are sufficient.

The idea that work in schools should make up half of the teacher training course means that trainee teachers would gain more practical experience. Many feel that this would improve the practical and pedagogical skills of student teachers. It would enable them to apply theoretical knowledge directly in everyday school life and prepare them better for the profession. However, others fear that this could be at the expense of theoretical training and scientific foundations. They argue that sound theoretical training is necessary in order to meet the complex demands of the teaching profession.

Increasing the number of police patrols is intended to improve security in the country and increase police presence. Supporters argue that this will make the fight against crime more effective and increase citizens' sense of security. They see it as a way of responding more quickly to incidents and taking preventative action against crime. However, opponents fear that this will lead to higher costs for the country and that resources could be lacking elsewhere. They also argue that an increased police presence alone is not enough to ensure long-term security and that preventative measures are just as important.

The police want to carry out more unprovoked checks in problem districts in order to combat crime and improve residents' sense of security. Some say that these measures help to prevent crime and react quickly to dangers. They believe that this is a good way of maintaining public order in particularly affected areas. Others say that such measures restrict the personal rights and freedom of citizens. They believe that this could lead to discrimination and mistrust of the police and would not have the desired effect.

The idea is to focus more on traditional German culture when promoting culture. Supporters say that this will preserve and pass on important traditions and values. Critics, however, fear that this will restrict cultural diversity and put contemporary and international projects at a disadvantage. They therefore call for open and diverse cultural funding for innovation and creative exchange.

Government funding for local journalism is intended to ensure the diversity and quality of reporting. Supporters say that this is particularly important in the face of declining income from advertising and subscriptions. Critics fear that state funding could jeopardise the independence of the media. They argue that this could lead to exertion of influence and restricted press freedom.

Wolves were thought to be extinct in Germany, but they are on the increase again in Saxony. There are more and more attacks on grazing animals. This is why the hunting of wolves was made easier in Saxony in spring 2024. Supporters of this regulation say that hundreds of livestock are killed by wolves every year. You can't simply protect grazing animals with electric fences. Opponents of increased hunting emphasise that the wolf is strictly protected. They emphasise preventative measures such as livestock guarding dogs, fences and compensation payments for livestock killed.

The cultivation of genetically modified plants in Thuringia is controversial. Those in favour of GM-free agriculture say that it better protects nature and biodiversity. Opponents argue that genetically modified plants offer higher yields, resistance to pests and diseases and lower pesticide use. These advantages could secure the food supply and reduce land consumption.

Those in favour of limiting the reception of refugees say that Saxony's municipalities are at the limits of their capacity for accommodation and integration measures. They fear that the social welfare system will be overburdened and that there could be security risks. Opponents of a limit point to the emergency situation in overcrowded refugee camps, such as on the Greek island of Lesbos. They say that Germany and the federal states have an ongoing humanitarian responsibility.

Language courses for refugees are an important step towards their integration. This makes it easier for them to find a job and participate in social life. Those in favour of language courses say that language skills improve refugees' chances of integrating and contributing to society. It doesn't matter how long they stay in the country. Opponents say that providing language courses for all refugees requires too much money and too much organisation. They say that resources should be better targeted to support those with a high likelihood of long-term residency. They also fear that this could raise false expectations and create additional incentives for migration without long-term prospects of staying.

A traditional family consists of a mother, father and children. Since 2017, same-sex couples have also been allowed to marry in Germany. Many couples also no longer marry, do not have children or live in patchwork families. Some are in favour of these developments. Others believe that the traditional family should be promoted more strongly. In their opinion, policy should therefore be orientated towards this as a guideline.

Climate neutrality means not releasing any climate-damaging greenhouse gases or at least offsetting them. This can be achieved through reforestation or carbon storage, for example. Germany aims to be climate-neutral by 2045. Supporters hope that this will enable the 2015 climate targets to be achieved. Opponents fear that necessary measures such as a ban on combustion engines could damage the economy.

The rewetting of moorland has ecological and economic aspects. Proponents say that this is important for climate protection. Moors store a lot of carbon and can reduce greenhouse gases when rewetted. They promote biodiversity and improve water quality. Opponents fear economic disadvantages such as the loss of agricultural land. These are important for food production and farmers' incomes. The loss could reduce production and bring disadvantages. The question is whether the benefits justify the costs and the loss of arable land.

The State Office for the Protection of the Constitution of Saxony collects information on activities that jeopardise the free democratic basic order. It uses intelligence services and can investigate before a criminal offence is committed, even without concrete suspicion. Opponents believe that the Office for the Protection of the Constitution cannot be adequately monitored. Those in favour say that there is a need for a body that deals exclusively with the protection of the basic democratic order.

The Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution uses confidants - so-called V-Leute. These people move in extremist circles and report to the domestic intelligence service. Supporters say that informers are often the only way to gain insights into criminal structures. Opponents criticise the fact that V-Leute operate in a legal grey area. It is often unclear which activities are covered by law and what happens if they commit criminal offences to avoid attracting attention.

The opening of supermarkets on Sundays has economic and social aspects. Those in favour say that this offers more flexibility and convenience when shopping, especially for working people and families. They see positive economic effects through additional revenue and jobs. Opponents warn of negative effects on the work-life balance of employees and pressure on small retailers. They emphasise the importance of Sundays as a day of rest for recreation and social life.

It is important that there is social housing so that people on low incomes can also find affordable accommodation. Those in favour of such support say that this could reduce pressure on the housing market and counteract housing shortages and homelessness. Social housing can also ensure that different social classes live together and integrate. This also makes rents more stable in the long term. Opponents fear that the subsidisation will become too expensive and the state will no longer be able to pay for it. They say that the market itself should ensure that there is enough housing. When the state interferes, it often leads to inefficiency. In addition, the focus on social housing could crowd out other important investments.

The introduction of an East German quota would ensure that at least half of new employees in the public sector come from East Germany. Supporters say that this quota is necessary to compensate for the historical disadvantage and underrepresentation of East Germans. They believe this would be a step towards promoting equal opportunities and better representing the East German population. It could also reduce regional inequalities and strengthen trust in state institutions. Opponents fear that such a quota could lead to discrimination based on origin and undermine meritocratic principles in selection. They say that jobs in the public sector should be filled according to qualifications and skills, regardless of origin. In addition, implementation could pose legal challenges and be perceived as unfair.

In 2022, almost 2.5 million vertebrates and cephalopods were used for scientific purposes in Germany. Mice and rats make up the largest group at around 90%. Animal rights activists are calling for an end to animal testing, arguing that the results cannot be transferred to humans. Opponents argue that the complexity of whole organisms is necessary to test all the effects of a substance.

The receipt of income support (Bürgergeld) by Ukrainian refugees is controversial. Opponents say that the welfare system is overburdened and resources for the local population could become scarce. They fear that the generous welfare state will incentivise an increase in the number of refugees. Supporters emphasise Germany's humanitarian obligation and the need to help people fleeing war and persecution. They say that social benefits facilitate integration and promote social participation and access to the labour market in the long term.

In Saxony, there is no legal limit to the number of times members of the state parliament or state government can be re-elected. Members of parliament and members of the state government can theoretically be re-elected an unlimited number of times. Those in favour of a limit say that this could encourage political renewal and a change of office holders. They see this as a way of increasing political diversity and reducing the risk of concentration of power and office fatigue. A limit could allow new candidates to enter politics and bring fresh ideas to the table. Opponents fear that such a regulation could exclude experienced politicians from continuing their work. They say that re-election should be based on performance and voter confidence, not a fixed limit. A limit could encourage short-term considerations rather than long-term political strategies.

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