The German Minutes - December 13, 2025
🇩🇪 Germany Political & Government News Digest – Dec 13, 2025
Here’s today’s German news digest compiled from major German newspapers, prioritizing stories with relevance to internationals living in Germany.
Germany accuses Russia of cyberattacks and disinformation
The German foreign ministry has publicly accused Russia of mounting specific cyberattacks and spreading disinformation that threatens national security. The government called in the Russian ambassador to demand explanations and signaled this is part of broader concerns over hybrid threats.
Impact: This escalation matters for internationals in Germany as it may lead to tighter cybersecurity policies, increased monitoring of online content, and potentially new rules for digital infrastructure providers. Such developments could affect business operations and individual digital security practices.
Source: https://www.sueddeutsche.de/politik/bundesregierung-botschafter-russland-cyberangriff-wahl-li.3353565
Government launches online citizen feedback portal to reduce bureaucracy
The federal government unveiled plans for a new platform called “Einfach machen” (Make it Easy), where residents will be able to report bureaucratic hurdles and inefficiencies in administration. The aim is to collect grassroots feedback and reform slow processes.
Impact: For internationals navigating visa processes, work permits, housing registrations, or business filings, this portal could streamline interactions with authorities and offer a direct way to flag problems that affect daily life. Süddeutsche.de
Source: https://www.sueddeutsche.de/politik/bundesregierung-liveblog-deutschland-news-einfach-machen-onlineportal-verwaltung-li.3348925
Rise in adult ADHD diagnoses in Germany
A recent study reports a nearly 200 % increase in ADHD diagnoses among adults in Germany between 2015 and 2024. Analysts say growing awareness—and perhaps diagnostic practice changes—are driving the trend.
Impact: This may influence healthcare access and insurance coverage for mental health conditions. Internationals should be aware of evolving diagnostic and treatment norms which could affect health insurance premiums, therapy availability, and workplace accommodations.
Source: https://www.sueddeutsche.de/gesundheit/adhs-erwachsene-deutschland-diagnose-anstieg-li.3352809
FAZ commentary: government coalition mixed progress
Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung’s commentary reflects on the ruling coalition’s recent policy decisions, noting incremental reform strides but mixed results and political friction, especially on transport and infrastructure projects.
Impact: Internationals will find this relevant as it reflects the political environment shaping future reforms—including infrastructure spending, housing policy, and economic regulation—that could affect living costs and mobility in Germany.
Source: https://ch.marketscreener.com/boerse-nachrichten/pressestimme-frankfurter-allgemeine-zeitung-zu-entscheidungen-der-koalition-ce7d50dbdf8df12d
CSU Party Congress highlights political pressure
The Christian Social Union (CSU) kicked off its party congress with leader Markus Söder stating that Germany faces unprecedented pressures—economically, socially, and geopolitically. The remarks signal conservative positioning ahead of future elections.
Impact: The tone of major party politics affects policy direction, especially on immigration, social policy, taxation, and integration—key issues for foreign residents planning long-term stays.
Source: https://www.sueddeutsche.de/bayern/csu-parteitag-soeder-sieht-deutschland-so-stark-unter-druck-wie-noch-nie-dpa.urn-newsml-dpa-com-20090101-251212-930-416917
Germany’s nationwide citizen feedback initiative on bureaucracy (deeper look)
Beyond just launching Einfach machen, the federal government emphasizes digital inclusion by encouraging residents (including non-native speakers) to document bureaucratic pain points—a rare move toward responsiveness in German public administration.
Impact: Internationals often struggle with German bureaucracy; this platform could be a practical way to influence policy and reduce red tape affecting everyday tasks like tax filings or permit renewals.
Source: https://www.sueddeutsche.de/politik/bundesregierung-liveblog-deutschland-news-einfach-machen-onlineportal-verwaltung-li.3348925
German Women’s Handball Team Reaches World Cup Final
In a rare sporting achievement, Germany’s women’s national handball team reached the World Championship final for the first time in over three decades, boosting national morale and sporting interest.
Impact: While a sports story, this reflects cultural life in Germany and offers internationals an opportunity to engage with community events, local celebrations, and shared cultural identity. Sports achievements often influence public discourse and social cohesion.
Source: https://www.sueddeutsche.de/sport/handball-wm-halbfinale-deutschland-frauen-nationalmannschaft-li.3353965
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