Baden-Württemberg's Greens bet on free school meals in 2026 election push

Baden-Württemberg's Greens bet on free school meals in 2026 election push

A poster featuring two children seated at a table with a plate of food, a glass, and other items, with the text "Every child needs a good school lunch."

Baden-Württemberg's Greens bet on free school meals in 2026 election push

Baden-Württemberg is preparing for its state election on 8 March 2026, with the Green Party presenting Cem Özdemir as its lead candidate. The campaign has already seen new proposals, including free school lunches for disadvantaged pupils. Meanwhile, long-serving Green premier Winfried Kretschmann has announced he will step down after three terms in office.

Winfried Kretschmann, Germany's first and only Green state premier, confirmed he would not run again. His departure marks the end of a 15-year leadership in Baden-Württemberg. The Green Party has now chosen Cem Özdemir, its state leader, to head the 2026 election campaign.

Özdemir has put forward a plan to offer free school meals for children attending schools under the federal Startchancen programme. This initiative supports up to 4,000 disadvantaged schools across Germany, including 540 in Baden-Württemberg. Funding covers improved learning environments, extra staff, and targeted support in German, maths, and socio-emotional development.

The Green candidate argues that nutritious meals are essential for students' academic success. His proposal focuses on schools already receiving additional resources through the programme. The CDU, meanwhile, has named Manuel Hagel—its state and parliamentary leader—as its candidate for premier.

The election will determine Baden-Württemberg's next government, with Özdemir's free school meals plan forming part of the Green Party's platform. The Startchancen programme continues to provide funding for staff and facilities at selected schools. Kretschmann's exit after three terms leaves the Greens seeking to maintain their hold on the state.

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