Administration in Dortmund 2026: Digitalization, Integration, and Governance in Focus

Governance in Dortmund 2026: How the City is Rethinking Administration

In 2026, the city of Dortmund has intensified its focus on modernizing its administrative culture. Topics such as digitalization, personnel development, equal opportunities, and integration play a central role. These developments demonstrate how the municipality is responding to future challenges – and how it remains both citizen-oriented and efficient in the process.

Digitalization as a Key to Administrative Modernization

The digitalization of administration in Dortmund is progressing on multiple levels. The introduction of the e-Akte (digital file) is a milestone that has already been completed in several departments. The rollout in additional departments is planned for 2026, with the goal of enabling comprehensive digital archiving by 2028. Another project is the Doxis document management system, which promotes paperless work and reduces printer usage.

Although there have been discussions about the use of AI systems, for example, to automate routine tasks, the administration remains cautious. Skepticism exists among IT experts, as the technology is not yet fully mature. Nevertheless, AI coordinators have been appointed to develop long-term strategies.

Another project that combines digitalization with citizens' needs is the LINa app. The CDU faction has advocated for the app to be implemented not as a separate service, but as an extension of the existing Dortmund app, in order to leverage synergies and save costs.

Personnel Development and Training: Inclusive and Diverse

In 2026, training policy in Dortmund is a central component of the governance strategy. With 95 training positions per year, the capacity for training has increased. Particularly noteworthy is the 96% training placement rate, which shows that Dortmund's training policy is effective. Inclusive and supported training has been implemented with a total of 7 positions.

The training capacity is not only being expanded quantitatively, but also qualitatively. Projects such as "Startklar" and "Kita-Einstieg" specifically integrate refugees and newly arrived people into the labor market. These formats are being consolidated and financially secured starting in 2026.

Integration and Equal Opportunities: More Than Just Social Policy

Integration in Dortmund is not only a social task, but also a central part of the governance strategy. The Committee for Equal Opportunities and Integration addressed important topics during its meeting on 29.01.2026:

• The establishment of a Ukrainian House is being examined to provide a central place of encounter and support for displaced people.
• The acceleration of the autopsy process has been initiated to take religious needs into account during repatriation to other countries.
• Support projects such as "At the Common Table" and "DIALOG. BERUF. DORTMUND" show how integration is advanced through education and exchange.

Another focus is the digital equipment of committee members. Dortmund is using iPads and the Mandatos app to optimize the preparation for meetings and ensure transparency.

Governance Structure: Transparent Decision-Making

The structure of the administration and the political committees is another central topic. Following the inauguration of Mayor Alexander Kalouti, a process is underway to restructure the "Dortmund 2035" office. In addition, there have been new appointments in committees such as the one for Equal Opportunities and Integration, reflecting changed majority positions.

Accessibility and transparency in the administration are not only formal requirements, but part of the city's governance philosophy. For example, meeting documents are digitally accessible, and access for people with disabilities is actively ensured.

Outlook: What's Coming in 2026?

2026 will be a year of implementation in Dortmund. The digitalization of the administration will be accelerated, the training policy will remain inclusive, and integration will be firmly anchored as a central governance factor. In addition, the focus will increase on project success control and citizen participation – also through the debate on the "Dortmund Brand" campaign.

The challenges remain great: AI strategy, budget restrictions, and the integration of refugees. Yet with a clear governance strategy and a transparent, inclusive administration, Dortmund is well-prepared.