A woman-sided Country?

Political and cultural formation is a strong aspect of the social doctrine of the Catholic Church. KFD, the Community of German Catholic Women (Katholische Frauengemeinschaft Deutschlands), the largest women association in Germany and the largest Catholic association with over half million members, draws inspiration from the teachings of the Magisterium and from an authentic, propositional capacity. Contemporary participation of women in the political and administrative life of Germany may serve as an element of comparison on the presence of women in European society. From this perspective, Massimo Lavena (SIR Europe) discussed the role of stateswoman Chancellor Angela Merkel at her third term in office, women ministers in pivotal roles, and the commitment of Catholic women in German society with Maria-Theresia Opladen, KFD President. Could the personal success of Chancellor Angela Merkel stir German women’s commitment? Could women contribute to a new understanding of politics?”In my opinion there is not necessarily a relationship between individual political leaders and the fundamental orientation of German politics, while it is true that in Germany we are very proud to have a strong woman such as Angela Merkel at the helm of the government. In her role, she surely is an example for many people. But that does not mean that the participation of women in top positions is particularly strong in Germany compared to other European nations. There are certainly countries with higher percentages of women in politics. However, we are noticing an increase in the number of women in the public arena. It is evident also in the composition of the new federal government and the distribution of Parliament seats. I am sure that the new ministers and even the new secretaries of State and female ministers of the Länder will deliver positive signals.”German women play a crucial role in the creation of a multi-ethnic society. From this perspective, how do you consider the participation of ministers in the new government? “In her capacities as the first woman minister for Defense, Ursula von der Leyen will give new guidelines to ensure that gender stereotyping and expectations on the roles of men and women become more open and diverse. As Minister of State at the Chancellery and Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration, Aydan Özoðuz will bring a new sensitivity in the approach to integration issues. But women alone don’t represent a social change. For this to happen the contribution of other actors in society is needed, like in associations. From this perspective, KFD believes that it can give its contribution to the future of our society. We have taken a clear stand with a document titled ‘Equality in men and women’s lives’, thereby encouraging our members to give an active contribution to the realization of this goal. Moreover, with our project ‘Specializing in cultural mediation’, we have offered a significant contribution to intercultural and inter-religious dialogue in our society, in particular among women. In many German sites our Catholic Female communities have close relations with groups of Muslim women, and the project has favoured the birth of several inter-cultural and inter-religious groups.”What is the contribution of women in public administration, in the light of the increasing number of women employed as civil servants?”Equality between women and men in public administration, in particular those in top positions, has led many governments to be headed by women. Compared to men, however, they are still a minority. KFD therefore proposes fixed female quotas to strengthen this process. Overall, it has been noted that with the increase in the percentage of women in leading positions a debate on working hours and conditions needs to be promoted, as well as on the compatibility between salaried work and profession: many issues and developments have yet to be addressed.” How can the commitment of Catholic women, especially in terms of ethics and protection of the family, provide an incentive for public debate – too often exasperated and inconclusive?”As a Community of Catholic women in Germany we also consider ourselves a political lobby. We do speak out on ethical issues and policies for the family, writing to politicians, men and women alike, collecting signatures and trying, with similar actions, to raise public awareness. In recent years we have taken clear positions on issues relating to prenatal diagnosis, pre-implantation diagnostics, euthanasia and on many questions regarding policies for the family.”