Governing Mayor: Starting the new year with optimism and solidarity

Berlin's Governing Mayor Kai Wegner in his office in the Red Town Hall. (Archive image)

Kai Wegner, Berlin's governing mayor, is calling on people to start the new year with a sense of optimism.

"I know that many of you are worried," says the CDU politician in his New Year's address, according to the manuscript published in advance. "The global crises, Russia's war against Ukraine, indeed, the tense situation in many parts of the world, are weighing heavily on us all. Sometimes you just don't want to hear about it anymore." In turbulent times, cohesion and stability are more important than ever. "Let's start the new year with confidence and optimism. Together, we can and will shape our future in Berlin."

Focus on new construction, affordable rents and tenant protection

The challenges are also great in Berlin, according to Wegner. "Many people are worried about whether they will still be able to pay their rent, whether life in our city is still safe and what will happen to healthcare. I take these concerns, your concerns, very seriously." That is why the Senate continues to focus on new construction, affordable rents and tenant protection. "We are supporting our police force and providing them with modern and better equipment. We are strengthening our hospitals and will ensure that reliable healthcare is guaranteed in all districts. And I am convinced that we will overcome these challenges."

Construction site management and action against litter

This requires courageous decisions and the right priorities. "We in Berlin have set out on this path." Administrative reform has been decided upon as the basis for a functioning Berlin. "We have made it possible for you to get an appointment at our citizens' offices at short notice without any problems," Wegner continued. "I know that many of you are sometimes annoyed – about the many construction sites in Berlin, about rubbish and neglect," said the Governing Mayor. "I assure you: we are and will continue to be active in this area. We will appoint a construction site coordinator and introduce proper construction site management," he announced. And: "Every district will receive additional staff to combat rubbish and dirt." The Governing Mayor's New Year's address will be broadcast in full on RBB television on Thursday, January 1, 2026, at 7:55 pm.