With the federal elections in Germany scheduled for February 23, 2024, the topic of sports governance has emerged as a significant focus within the manifestos of several political parties.

Key political groups, including the Social Democratic Party (SPD), Christian Democrats (CDU), the Greens, the Free Democratic Party (FDP), and the Left Party, have articulated comprehensive plans regarding the future of sports in Germany.

In contrast, the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) and the Sarah Wagenknecht Alliance (BSW) have largely excluded the subject of sports from their platforms.

A notable point of agreement among the CDU, SPD, Greens, and FDP is their support for a potential German bid to host either the 2036 or 2040 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Specific conditions have been proposed: the FDP insists that any bid must comply with ecological, economic, and humanitarian standards, along with maintaining the traditions of sportsmanship.

The Greens prioritize sustainability, advocating that both existing and new sports facilities must be publicly accessible.

They also suggest that profits generated from the Games should be taxed similarly to municipal fees.

Currently, governance of sports in Germany falls under the jurisdiction of the Interior Ministry.

The CDU has put forward a proposal for a dedicated Minister of State for Sports and Volunteering, responding to requests from various sports associations for increased political engagement and structural support in the sports arena.

The SPD has proposed an amendment to the German constitution to formally recognize sports as a national objective, a move aimed at promoting health, social participation, and integration within the country.

This constitutional amendment would necessitate a two-thirds majority in the Bundestag, which the SPD believes could attract support from the Left Party, which shares similar goals.

Additionally, the SPD and the Greens are advocating for a Sports Promotion Act designed to increase funding and resources for elite athletes.

However, the FDP has endorsed the promotion of competitive sports without providing specific measures or funding structures.

When addressing gender representation in sports, the Greens express a commitment to advancing the interests of women and queer individuals through initiatives focused on gender budgeting and equal pay.

The Left Party emphasizes gender equity in the allocation of funding and programs in sports.

In stark contrast, the BSW has indicated an intention to revoke laws that currently support gender self-identification for transgender individuals, arguing that such policies disrupt competitive fairness in women’s sports categories.

Grassroots sports promotion is another shared objective among the political parties, with aspirations to fund the renovation of aging sports facilities.

The CDU and Left Party have set targets for universal swimming proficiency among children by the completion of primary education, given that approximately 20% of German children aged 6 to 10 cannot swim.

The CDU and FDP also aim to maintain competitive elements at the Federal Youth Games, while the BSW proposes offering financial support for children wishing to join sports clubs.

Furthermore, the CDU plans to recognize esports as a legitimate sport eligible for non-profit status, allowing for tax benefits for these organizations.

Interest in esports is burgeoning within the youth demographic, with roughly 3 million individuals participating across 250 clubs in Germany.

Overall, the upcoming elections illuminate the crucial role that sports play within German society and reveal the varied perspectives and policies that will influence the governance of sports in the country.