German Minister Verena Hubertz Responds to Hostile Online Reaction to Pregnancy – A New Chapter for Women in Politics
Berlin, Germany – August 28, 2025 – In a powerful statement released today, German Minister of Construction Verena Hubertz (SPD) addressed a wave of online hostility following her announcement that she is expecting her first child in January. The backlash, including deeply personal and politically charged comments, has sparked a national conversation about the challenges faced by women in leadership positions who choose to become mothers. This is a breaking news story with significant implications for the future of gender equality in German politics, and a crucial moment for SEO visibility on Google News.
Facing the Critics: “Thoughtless” Remarks and Political Attacks
Hubertz revealed that she has received disturbing messages, including comments questioning her dedication to her role and even linking her pregnancy to political affiliation. “Statements like: ‘The poor child, none of his mother will notice’ or even: ‘One more reason to only choose AfD’,” she shared in her statement. The attacks highlight a persistent societal expectation that women must choose between career and family, a narrative Hubertz is determined to challenge.
Millions Balancing Act: Hubertz Champions Working Mothers
The Minister directly countered the criticism, emphasizing that millions of German women successfully navigate the complexities of balancing professional responsibilities with motherhood every day. “They are responsible in their families and in their profession and this with a strength that is seen far too rarely,” she asserted. Her response resonates with a growing movement advocating for greater support for working parents and a more inclusive workplace culture. This isn’t just about one politician; it’s about normalizing the reality of working mothers and dismantling outdated stereotypes.
A Three-Month Maternity Leave and Shared Parental Responsibility
Hubertz plans to take a three-month maternity leave, during which her partner will assume a significant role in childcare and will also take parental leave. Notably, he intends to accompany her to the Bundestag and the Ministry frequently, demonstrating a commitment to shared parental responsibility. While the Minister has chosen to keep her partner’s name private, she explained that sharing a photo of them together was important to dispel speculation and promote openness. This arrangement sets a positive example for other families and challenges traditional gender roles.
The Historical Context: Women in German Politics
Hubertz’s pregnancy arrives at a pivotal moment for women in German politics. While representation has improved in recent decades, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions. Historically, the demands of political life have often been seen as incompatible with raising a family, creating a barrier to entry for many women. Hubertz’s decision to embrace both motherhood and her ministerial role could pave the way for a more inclusive and representative political landscape. The German constitution guarantees equal rights for men and women, but societal norms often lag behind legal frameworks.
Beyond Germany: A Global Conversation on Work-Life Integration
The challenges faced by Minister Hubertz are not unique to Germany. Across the globe, women in leadership positions grapple with similar pressures and expectations. The debate over work-life integration is particularly relevant in today’s fast-paced world, where the boundaries between professional and personal life are increasingly blurred. Companies and governments are beginning to recognize the importance of providing support for working parents, including affordable childcare, flexible work arrangements, and generous parental leave policies. This is a global trend, and Hubertz’s story adds a powerful voice to the conversation.
Verena Hubertz’s commitment to serving as both a minister and a mother is a bold statement about the evolving role of women in society. Her willingness to confront online hostility and advocate for a more equitable future is inspiring. As she prepares to welcome her child in January, she is also laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and representative political system – one where women can thrive both professionally and personally. Stay tuned to Archyde for continued coverage of this developing story and insightful analysis on the intersection of politics, gender, and family.
