Firing Up Equality: Uta Kletzing Set to Uplift Brandenburg Women and Men
Driving Force Behind New Commissioner's Agenda: Advocating for Equality as a Path to Unity - Appointed Official Emphasizes Equality as a Catalyst for Harmony
Hey there! Let's talk about an exciting new appointment in Brandenburg – the newly-minted Commissioner for Equality, Uta Kletzing! This tough-talking powerhouse is all about promoting equality between the sexes in the state and she's got some serious ideas up her sleeve.
"Equality," says Kletzing, aged 49, with a steely glance, "is the secret sauce for a thriving democracy and social harmony. And trust me, we need it more than ever." With the cabinet's seal of approval, Kletzing will officially step into her role next week.
Kletzing's list of priorities is nothing short of ambitious. "A more equal society means more modern and attractive employers, not just for women, but for everyone," she declares. "I'm talking gender-inclusive career paths that reconcile work and family responsibilities, and equal pay – it's high time these became the norm."
The Brandenburg government's SPD/BSW coalition shares Kletzing's vision. Social Minister Britta Müller (independent, for BSW) is pushing for true gender parity in professions, politics, and society. But, Müller acknowledges the challenges ahead, pointing out that women still take on the lion's share of unpaid care work, work part-time more often, and are underrepresented in leadership roles.
The wage gap between men and women in Brandenburg may be the lowest in the country, but it's still a persistent issue. In 2024, women earned an average of 21.46 euros per hour, a mere 2% less than their male counterparts who took home 21.79 euros per hour, according to the statistics office.
So, what's Kletzing's plan to shake things up? Well, she's considering a new push for a parity law – you know, the one that aims to ensure an even split of male and female candidates on state election lists. The Brandenburg Constitutional Court nixed the parity law in 2020, but Kletzing thinks it might be time for a reboot.
Kletzing was previously the personnel director of the state capital Potsdam. According to Müller, her expertise lies in helping women climb the corporate ladder. For years, she's been championing gender equality in politics, administration, science, and business. Her predecessor, Manuela Dörnenburg, held the position earlier under Green Social Minister Ursula Nonnemacher.
As for Kletzing's specific plans, you'll have to keep an eye on official government announcements or local news for the latest updates. But one thing's for sure, Brandenburg is about to get a whole lot more equal!
"Uta Kletzing, the newly appointed Commissioner for Equality in Brandenburg, intends to implement a wide range of policies to create a more equal society. This includes pushing for gender-inclusive career paths and equal pay, with the ultimate goal of attracting modern and attractive employers for both men and women."
"Additionally, Kletzing is considering reintroducing a parity law, which aims to ensure an even split of male and female candidates on state election lists, following the Brandenburg Constitutional Court's decision to dismiss it in 2020."
