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Initiative for a modern state: reforms for a digital future!
The Bucerius Law School initiates reform proposals to modernize the state, presented at the Democracy Festival 2025.
Initiative for a modern state: reforms for a digital future!
The launch event of the Initiative for an Effective State took place on November 12, 2024 at Bellevue Palace. This initiative, in which the Bucerius Law School is active through the ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS, aims to advance the fundamental modernization of the state. Prof. Anne Röthel and Prof. Tristan Rohner bring their expertise as well as that of their students and alumni to the project, which is supported by prominent personalities such as Julia Jäkel, Thomas de Maizière, Peer Steinbrück and Andreas Voßkuhle. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has taken over the patronage, which underlines the importance of the project.
Based on an 88-page interim report and 30 reform proposals, the aim is to increase the efficiency of the administration, prioritize digitalization and adapt the security architecture. The central demands include the creation of a ministry for digital affairs and administration as well as the centralization of social security and the establishment of a National Security Council.
Reform proposals and modernization approaches
Particular emphasis is placed on reducing bureaucracy, which is considered a central concern. The proposed measures provide for improved legislative processes and comprehensive digitalization. In addition, Prof. Rohner emphasizes the need for a flexible legal system that responds promptly to new developments.
The initiative is supported by four foundations: the Hertie Foundation, the Fritz Thyssen Foundation, the Mercator Foundation and the Zeit Foundation Bucerius. The office is located at the Hertie School in Berlin and has already developed reform proposals in collaboration with 54 experts from administration, science and business. The final report is due to be presented in July 2025 and contains further recommendations and suggestions.
Digital transformation and sustainability
As part of the initiative, the ongoing digital transformation of the state is also a central topic. According to the federal government, the federal government should create the necessary framework conditions to ensure climate-friendly, affordable and independent energy supplies. The focus here is on the expansion of renewable energies, energy efficiency and the modernization of the infrastructure. Particular attention is also paid to strengthening the digital infrastructure.
The need to speed up planning and approval processes for renewable energy is also highlighted. Among other things, a nationwide gigabit land register for fiber optic cables is to be set up in order to further promote the digital future in Germany. Rail infrastructure is also at the center of considerations in order to make transport more efficient and offer more environmentally friendly transport options.
In addition, an “action program for natural climate protection” to preserve ecosystems is being launched with the aim of creating a connection between climate goals, nature and species protection and the energy transition. The dialogue with the public will be intensified in a public discussion format that will take place at the ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS Democracy Festival on April 12, 2025 in Hamburg.
The initiative for an effective state is not only a response to current challenges, but also a step towards a modern future that should better meet the needs of society.