Don't Leave Berlin Entirely to Politics

VBKI Chairpersons Strengthen the VBKI's Political Role

Text by Jonas Koch | Junior Communications and Marketing Specialist

The morning after the Berlin election, the chairs of our expert groups, committees, forums, and centers of expertise gathered at our office on Fasanenstraße to meet with our president, Prof. Harald Christ. After getting to know one another, the conversation quickly turned to the question that will occupy us intensively in the coming months: What role do we, as the VBKI, want to and need to play in Berlin?

Our goal is clear: We want to become more politically engaged without becoming tied to any particular political party. We do not want to leave Berlin solely to the politicians; rather, we want to play an even greater role in the debates about our city’s future as an independent—and, where necessary, critical yet constructive—voice for Berlin’s business community and urban society. In doing so, it is important to take clear positions while remaining open to dialogue.

Our expert groups play a key role in this regard. This is where a significant portion of our substantive and policy work takes place. Different perspectives come together, positions are developed, and concrete initiatives for Berlin emerge. Especially in times of great change, we want to leverage this strength even more effectively.

There was also discussion about how we can make economic relationships more visible and understandable, and, in particular, how we can better engage younger people on economic policy issues. After all, a strong economy is not an end in itself. It lays the foundation for Berlin to invest, shape its future, and continue to develop.

We would like to thank all the chairs for their tremendous dedication, their ideas, and their willingness to take on responsibility. Our discussions have shown that there is much to be done and just as much potential to make a difference for Berlin together.

Anyone interested in joining our expert panels is welcome to contact annette.kusche@vbki.de .