Youth Policy in Potsdam: Focus on Structures and Decisions in February 2026

Structural and Political Foundations of Youth Welfare in Potsdam

Youth policy in Potsdam is strongly shaped by the Youth Welfare Committee, which, as a body of local self-government, is responsible for implementing and supporting youth welfare. In February 2026, two public meetings took place that set important impulses for the future of youth promotion in the city. These meetings reflect both the strategic and operational challenges the city is currently addressing.

Budget, Funding, and Long-Term Planning

The first meeting of the Youth Welfare Committee on February 11, 2026, focused primarily on financial aspects. The budget ordinance with the 2026 budget plan and the voluntary budget consolidation program for 2026–2029 were discussed. These measures are part of long-term planning to maintain financial stability in youth welfare, especially against the background of increasing demand and limited resources. In addition, the 2026 Economic Plan of the Municipal Real Estate Service (KIS) was discussed, which influences the infrastructure of youth welfare services.

A central topic was also the Youth Welfare Committee's statement on kindergarten funding. Here, a clear desire for greater transparency and sustainable planning became apparent to ensure the quality of childcare in the long term. The discussions emphasized the close connection between early childhood education and general youth promotion.

Youth Participation and Municipal Development

The second public meeting of the Youth Welfare Committee took place on February 19, 2026. This time, the focus was on youth perspectives. Children and young people presented their concerns and questions, while the County Students' Council submitted a report. Such participation formats are a central component of democratic youth policy and show how Potsdam is trying to actively involve young people in political decision-making processes.

Another central topic was the current status of the "Action Plan for a Child and Youth-Friendly Community." This plan is part of a broader strategy to improve the living conditions for children and young people in Potsdam. The Nuthepark was also discussed, focusing on its use and development for youth target groups. Additionally, a hearing took place regarding the transfer of responsibility for integration services under § 48 BbgKJG to the Youth Welfare Office. This step could improve the coordination of support options for young people with special needs.

Working Groups and Structural Cooperation

The meeting on February 19 also provided space for reports from various working groups and committees, such as the Kindergarten Parent Advisory Board or the Working Group under § 78 SGB VIII – Youth Promotion. These structures are crucial for networking between parents, educational institutions, and the administration. The report from the Sub-Committee on Youth Welfare Planning also highlighted how strongly Potsdam relies on structured cooperation to design youth welfare effectively.

Outlook and Challenges

The meetings of the Youth Welfare Committee in February 2026 show how strongly Potsdam is committed to proactive youth policy. At the same time, it becomes clear that the city faces significant challenges: from financial security through the integration of young voices into political decision-making processes to the coordination between different actors.

In the future, it will be important to translate the results of these meetings into concrete projects and measures. Particularly the implementation of the action plan and the further development of kindergarten funding are key issues for sustainable youth promotion in Potsdam.