Germany’s Digital Ministry ⁢Faces Hurdles Despite High Hopes

BERLIN (AP) — Karsten Wildberger’s potential transition from the private sector to ⁣lead Germany’s new Digital Ministry could be met with unexpected challenges, according to multiple experts.Chancellor-designate Friedrich Merz aims for a rapid digital transformation, but Wildberger may encounter bureaucratic obstacles.

High Expectations Meet Bureaucratic Reality

Thorsten Frei, the future head ⁤of the Chancellery, emphasized the need for “disruptive changes.” However, anonymous experts cited by Reuters suggest Wildberger will face hurdles related to budget constraints and administrative procedures, including basic logistical ⁣issues like⁢ office space,‍ staffing, and supplies.

The struggle for influence and responsibilities among government departments is ⁢already underway,⁢ sources told Reuters.

Chancellor’s Support and Shared Responsibilities

Merz⁢ has pledged strong support for Wildberger, aiming to ensure his success. However,⁤ the shared responsibilities between the federal government, states, and⁤ municipalities, notably in citizen services, could impede the promised digital advancement.A⁢ government employee with experience in⁢ federal digitization efforts noted that the ⁣complex web of responsibilities and diverse IT systems will be difficult to untangle.

Ongoing Conflicts and Shifting responsibilities

conflicts are emerging at the highest levels regarding the organizational decree, which dictates responsibilities among ministries. One source involved stated, “Basically, the second coalition negotiations take place here,” highlighting the⁢ power ⁣struggles and structural realignments occurring across party lines.

Even after ⁢the new Chancellor’s swearing-in,‍ these conflicts are expected to persist. A member of the outgoing government cautioned that similar disputes over departmental responsibilities considerably slowed progress in the past.

Challenges for New Ministries

establishing the Digital Ministry is seen as a monumental task. A leading politician ⁢from the incoming government told Reuters ‍that the difficult formation of the Ministry of Building in 2021 foreshadows the challenges ahead.

While the transfer of digital⁢ and data policy ⁣departments, along‍ with digital connectivity, from‍ the Ministry of Transport and Digital (BMDV) to the new ministry is planned,⁣ questions remain. For example,the fate of request-related⁣ areas like autonomous driving is still‍ under debate. The assignment of international negotiations on artificial⁣ intelligence also presents a dilemma, with some arguing it should fall under the Ministry of Research.

Turf Wars and Staffing Shortages

The Ministry of the Interior is reportedly reluctant to cede control over key areas such as cybersecurity to the new Digital Ministry. Sources told Reuters that the Ministry of the Interior is resisting the transfer of cybersecurity responsibilities.

The Digital⁣ Ministry faces a critical⁢ lack of infrastructure. While wildberger can initially occupy space within the Interior ministry,this is not a ‍long-term solution. The Interior Ministry is unwilling to transfer staff from its 85,000 employees across 19 subordinate authorities, ⁣leaving the Digital Ministry to seek personnel from other sources.

Banal Obstacles and Budgetary Concerns

Public administration operates differently from the private sector, where Wildberger previously led Ceconomy, the parent company of⁢ Media Markt and Saturn. A government organization specialist noted the mundane yet critical issues, such as the lack ⁣of a secure postal system for the new ministry.The Ministry of Construction faced⁢ similar delays in 2022, with mail requiring months for security clearance.

Even ordering basic ‍supplies like pencils proved problematic due to the absence of a ⁢dedicated⁢ budget and clearing account. As of the 2025 draft⁤ budget, these provisions remain absent for the Digital Ministry.