Next-generation female politicians - Success in a tandem

The mentoring program within the Aktionsprogramm Kommune connects young women in local politics, or those aspiring to be, with experienced politicians.

In the Hesselberg region, Alfons Brandl, a member of the Bavarian State Parliament, is mentoring Johanna Serban from Herrieden. In a video, the pair explains how the mentoring works and the benefits of their successful collaboration.

First-hand accounts, deep insights, and advice: this is what Johanna Serban (a city councilor in Herrieden) hopes to gain from the mentoring. Alfons Brandl (Member of the State Parliament) is acting as her mentor for about a year. This means answering questions, providing guidance, and offering support through his experience and contacts. For example, Johanna Serban has accompanied Alfons Brandl to the Bavarian State Parliament and other appointments. In the video about the mentoring program, they discuss their experiences as well as the major challenges they both see for women in politics.

Mentoring program aims to inspire courage

Both make it clear: the perspective, experience, and competence of women in politics are essential, yet still too often missing. Women also need to be much more assertive and therefore need to be encouraged and supported in taking on political offices. The mentoring program provides this support. In addition to gaining insight into political work, the goal is to inform mentees about informal rules of the game, enabling them to navigate political routines with confidence. Brandl and Serban explain exactly how this works in the video.

Few women in local politics

Especially in local politics, far too few women are involved in shaping the future of their municipalities, cities, or districts. Women remain significantly underrepresented in local government, accounting for an average of only 28 percent. Yet, the perspectives, experiences, and skills of women are particularly needed for the development of sustainable local policies.

The Aktionsprogramm Kommune

The project Aktionsprogramm Kommune aims to sustainably increase the proportion of women in local politics. Ten selected partner regions are receiving advice and support. In addition to the mentoring program, activities include networking and training opportunities for female mayors, as well as a cross-regional exchange of best practices. The regions are advised on topics such as improving the framework conditions for women's participation.