Yet, this cannot be taken for granted.
across the nation,sports clubs,associations,coaches,and athletes frequently feel undervalued and inadequately supported by political leaders for their dedication and efforts. Immediate action is required in numerous areas to address these concerns.
In light of the upcoming federal election on February 23, 2025, the DOSB, Germany’s leading sports association, has outlined ten critical political demands.These demands, unanimously approved by all 102 central associations, state sports federations, and specialized task groups during the DOSB general assembly on December 7, 2024, in Saarbrücken, have been presented to political parties and parliamentary groups. They will be actively promoted to policymakers throughout the election campaign and coalition negotiations.
Ten Key Demands to Elevate German Sports
Thomas Weikert, President of the DOSB, emphasizes, “Germany must prioritize sports. Sports offer unparalleled benefits to society—promoting health, fostering unity, breaking down barriers, and enhancing quality of life.To sustain these contributions, we need improved infrastructure: well-maintained sports facilities, increased volunteer trainers, stable frameworks for competitive sports, and initiatives to encourage physical activity among youth. It is the obligation of policymakers to collaborate with the sports community to ensure these needs are met, reflecting the vital role sports play in the lives of millions.”
Every week, approximately eight million volunteers dedicate their time to sports, strengthening communities and society at large. Sports represent diversity and resilience, notably in times of political uncertainty. They embody self-organization, voluntary service, and political neutrality. Sports clubs remain one of the few spaces where individuals from diverse backgrounds—regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or political beliefs—come together.In this way, sports serve as a cornerstone of democracy.
Strengthening Sports, Building Communities, Shaping the Future
For German sports to thrive, optimal conditions must be established across all levels of government. Policymakers must recognize both competitive and recreational sports as integral, cross-sector priorities.
Under the banner “Strengthening Sports, Building Communities, Shaping the Future,” the DOSB has articulated ten core demands for the incoming federal government ahead of the February 23 elections.
engaging the Public Through Athlete Stories
To bring these demands to life, the DOSB will feature interviews and profiles of elite athletes, sharing their personal experiences. These stories will be published weekly on the DOSB website and in the DOSB-Presse newsletter throughout the election campaign and coalition talks. Notable contributors include Olympic champions Laura Ludwig (beach volleyball), Felix Loch (luge), and Ronald Rauhe (canoe racing).
the DOSB also equips sports clubs, associations, and supporters with ready-to-use communication materials highlighting the ten demands.
Access these resources here: Sport with Attitude | Brandox Brand Asset Portal
your Role in Advancing Sports
You can make a difference by advocating for your sports club. Engage with political candidates in your constituency—send emails, make calls, attend office hours, or participate in campaign events to voice the demands that matter most to you. Direct communication with policymakers ensures that the needs of local communities are heard, driving progress for sports in Germany.
Find your representatives easily using the constituency search tool: https://www.bundestag.de/abgeordnete/wahlkreise
The Ten Demands of german Sports
- Upgrade, modernize, and decarbonize sports facilities
- Advance competitive sports reform, reduce bureaucracy, and enhance conditions for elite athletes
- Support volunteers and accelerate digital transformation
- Address future challenges through sports initiatives
- Ensure sustainable funding for volunteer services
- Develop a comprehensive agenda for youth sports
- Enhance safety and protection in sports
- Launch an educational campaign to recruit more trainers and instructors
- Commit to supporting Germany’s bid for the Olympic and Paralympic Games
- Appoint a dedicated Minister of State for Sport within the Federal Chancellery
For a detailed breakdown of the demands, visit: Key Demands of the DOSB for the Next Federal Government
Explore more on the DOSB website: https://www.dosb.de/mehr-sport-mehr-gemeinschaft-mehr-zukunft
(Source: DOSB)
As a highly professional sports moderator with extensive experience in moderating and debating, I find the information provided in the article to be a compelling call to action for the future of German sports. The DOSB’s ten key demands, presented ahead of the 2025 federal election, highlight the critical role sports play in society and the urgent need for political support to sustain and elevate this sector. Let’s break down the key points and explore thier meaning.
The Current State of German Sports
The article underscores a pervasive issue: sports clubs, associations, coaches, and athletes across Germany often feel undervalued and inadequately supported by political leaders. This sentiment is not just a matter of morale but a reflection of systemic gaps in infrastructure, funding, and recognition. Immediate action is required to address these concerns, notably as sports contribute significantly to societal health, unity, and quality of life [[1]].
DOSB’s Ten Key Demands
The DOSB,representing 102 central associations,state sports federations,and specialized task groups,has unanimously approved ten critical political demands. These demands are not just a wish list but a strategic roadmap to ensure the sustainability and growth of German sports. Key areas of focus include:
- Improved Infrastructure: Well-maintained sports facilities are essential for both competitive and recreational sports.
- Increased Volunteer Trainers: Volunteers are the backbone of sports clubs, and their efforts need to be recognized and supported.
- Stable Frameworks for Competitive Sports: A stable environment is crucial for athletes to thrive and for Germany to remain competitive on the global stage.
- initiatives to Encourage Physical Activity Among Youth: Engaging young peopel in sports is vital for long-term societal health and well-being.
thomas Weikert,President of the DOSB,emphasizes that sports are a cornerstone of democracy,bringing together individuals from diverse backgrounds and fostering resilience in times of political uncertainty. This perspective highlights the broader societal impact of sports beyond mere physical activity [[2]].
The Role of Policymakers
The DOSB’s demands are a call to action for policymakers to recognize sports as a cross-sector priority. This means integrating sports into broader policy frameworks,ensuring adequate funding,and creating conditions that allow sports to thrive at all levels. the upcoming federal election on February 23, 2025, presents a critical opportunity for political parties to commit to these demands and work collaboratively with the sports community [[3]].
Engaging the Public through Athlete Stories
To bring these demands to life, the DOSB plans to feature interviews and profiles of elite athletes. This approach is strategic, as personal stories resonate deeply with the public and can effectively communicate the importance of supporting sports. By showcasing the journeys of athletes, the DOSB aims to humanize the demands and illustrate the tangible benefits of investing in sports.
Conclusion
The DOSB’s ten key demands are a extensive and necessary blueprint for the future of German sports. As a sports moderator, I would emphasize the importance of these demands in fostering a healthier, more united, and resilient society.The upcoming election is a pivotal moment for policymakers to demonstrate their commitment to sports and, by extension, to the well-being of millions of Germans. Let’s hope that the political leaders heed this call and take decisive action to strengthen sports, build communities, and shape a brighter future for all.
