Youth Policy in Magdeburg: From Anti-Bullying Prevention to Student Passes

Youth Welfare Planning and Committees: Structure and Responsibility

Youth welfare planning in Magdeburg serves as a central framework for the development and implementation of youth policy measures. In February 2026, several relevant committees met, including the Sub-Committee for Youth Welfare Planning and the Youth Welfare Committee, to discuss current projects and administrative issues.

Among the central topics were the promotion of education-related offers through the network center "School Success" and the current status of the Kita-STABIL initiative. These structures show that Magdeburg is relying on an interconnected, interdisciplinary youth welfare system, where educational, social, and administrative tasks are closely linked.

Anti-Bullying Concept: Prevention and Intervention in Schools

Another central topic was the anti-bullying concept, which is embedded in youth welfare planning and runs until 2025. The goal is to establish an interdisciplinary network that acts both preventively and interventionally. This includes training for professionals, intervention teams at schools, and the development of quality standards.

The significance of these measures is underscored by statistics: 19% of 15-year-olds in Germany regularly experience bullying at school. Moreover, cyberbullying remains a problem – in 2024, 10% of girls and 4% of boys were affected. Bullying has long-term consequences, such as mental illness or social isolation.

Magdeburg demonstrates with the anti-bullying concept that it is not only reacting to symptoms but pursuing a structured, long-term approach. The inclusion of schools, youth authorities, and parent associations is crucial here.

Student Transportation and Student Pass: Equality in the Education System

The reform of the student transportation ordinance is another milestone in Magdeburg's youth policy. With the second amendment, equal treatment of students at public and independent schools was ensured. Particularly noteworthy is the introduction of the free Magdeburg student pass, which is valid for one school year and can also be used outside of school hours.

The reimbursement regulations are transparent: 0.20 euros are reimbursed per kilometer traveled, limited to the cost of a discounted monthly ticket from MVB. Applications for reimbursement must be submitted by September 30 of each year. This regulation is a step toward school choice and the equal treatment of different educational paths.

The amendments were adopted on January 22, 2026, and reflect the desire for an administratively practical and fair system that takes into account both the interests of students and the financial constraints of the city.

Youth Participation and Parent Representation: Cooperation and Structure

The City Parent Representation (StEV) was reconstituted in November 2025 and plays a central role in youth participation. With 13 elected board members and a clear set of bylaws, the StEV serves as a link between parents, administration, and politics. Members such as Ulrike Stroka and Felix Willer are active in committees such as the Youth Welfare Committee or the State Parent Representation.

In addition, Magdeburg relies on the involvement of City Youth Councils and Working Groups to incorporate youth concerns directly into decision-making processes. These structures enable a participatory youth policy, in which young people are not only heard but actively involved in shaping decisions.

Conclusion and Outlook

Youth policy in Magdeburg appears in February 2026 to be structured, interconnected, and future-oriented. From bullying prevention through the reform of student transportation to the strengthening of youth participation, the city is focusing on preventive measures, equality, and participation.

In the coming months, it will be particularly important to monitor the implementation of the adopted projects and to further strengthen dialogue forums and committees. Challenges such as staff shortages or budgetary pressure remain, but Magdeburg shows that youth-friendly policy is possible even in difficult times.