Germany for compulsory vaccination

The chancellor and the states agree on the need for stricter restrictions. Merkel’s successor, Olaf Solz, even advocated general vaccination.

Germany is on the verge of new austerity measures. In a three-hour teleconference between Chancellor Angela Merkel and her successor, Olaf Soltz, with the prime ministers of the 16 German states on Tuesday afternoon, unanimity prevailed over the need for new measures. According to a spokesman for the government, Stephen Seibert, the conference concluded:

-Intensification of the vaccination campaign, up to 30 million doses will be available by Christmas.

-Changing the law to provide vaccines in pharmacies, dental clinics and elsewhere.

– The federal state and the states form a task force based in the chancellery and headed by Lt. Gen. Carsten Breuer. The purpose of the team is to coordinate the vaccination campaign, as well as the supply and distribution of vaccines.

-In events and in the retail trade, the rule is imposed – entry only for vaccinated and recovered. Supermarkets and other stores that serve daily needs are excluded.

Compulsory use of a mask in schools.

-In principle agreement on the closure of bars and discos. It remains to be seen when this measure will be imposed.

Compulsory vaccination for staff in nursing homes, nursing homes, hospitals.

Distance of Solts from Liberals

For the first time, Olaf Solz today spoke in favor of imposing compulsory vaccination on all citizens. The request was made by the German states ruled by Christian Democrats and Greens. Mr Soltz hoped the mandatory vaccination would be passed by parliament and would take effect in February at the latest. Apparently to facilitate his future governing partners, the Liberals, Mr. Soltz suggested that lawmakers vote “conscientiously” in the relevant parliamentary vote. So far, the vast majority of Liberals reject general compulsory vaccination, with the exception of hospital staff, nursing homes and hospitals.

In a new teleconference meeting on Thursday, Angela Merkel and Olaf Solz will work with the state prime ministers to reach concrete decisions. For example, will football matches with fans continue to be played on the pitch or not? However, at today’s conference, Olaf Solz promised the states that he would make changes to the epidemic law when he takes office as chancellor next week. As he put it, “states with high case numbers will continue to have the right toolbox in the future.” These measures may include the closure of restaurants for a limited period of time. This measure will be entitled to be imposed by each state separately.

Panagiotis Kouparanis, Berlin

Source: Deutsche Welle