Bundestag Seeks Clarity on House of World Cultures’ Future
Berlin, Germany – August 14, 2025 – A new parliamentary inquiry has been launched by members of the German Bundestag, seeking detailed information regarding the financial stability, programmatic direction, and overarching strategy of the renowned House of World Cultures (Haus der Kulturen der Welt, or HKW). The inquiry, formally submitted as Drucksache 21/1235, signifies a focused parliamentary effort to gain a comprehensive understanding of this prominent cultural institution.
The document, published today with the timestamp 2025-08-14 10:00, outlines a series of questions posed to the relevant federal authorities. These questions are expected to shed light on critical aspects of the HKW’s operations and its strategic vision for the coming years.
While the specific details of the questions are not fully elaborated in the initial publication, the title “Kleine Anfrage Finanzierung, Programm und Ausrichtung des Hauses der Kulturen der Welt” (Minor Inquiry Funding, Program, and Orientation of the House of World Cultures) clearly indicates the core areas of concern. This suggests that parliamentarians are keen to understand:
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Financial Framework: The inquiry likely delves into the current and projected funding streams for the HKW, potentially examining the reliance on federal subsidies, other revenue sources, and any plans for financial sustainability. This could encompass questions about budget allocations, expenditure, and the impact of any economic fluctuations on the institution’s ability to fulfill its mission.
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Programmatic Development: The “Programm” aspect of the inquiry points towards an interest in the HKW’s artistic and cultural programming. Parliamentarians may be seeking to understand the criteria for selecting exhibitions, performances, and events, as well as the perceived relevance and impact of these offerings on diverse audiences and contemporary societal discourse. Questions might also address the HKW’s role in fostering intercultural dialogue and presenting a wide spectrum of global artistic expressions.
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Strategic Orientation: The “Ausrichtung” (orientation or direction) suggests a broader examination of the HKW’s strategic goals and its positioning within the national and international cultural landscape. This could involve inquiries into its mission statement, its engagement with emerging cultural trends, its approach to audience development, and its contributions to Germany’s cultural diplomacy. The inquiry may also seek to understand how the HKW is adapting to evolving societal needs and expectations.
The submission of a “Kleine Anfrage” (minor inquiry) is a standard parliamentary procedure in Germany, used by individual members or small groups of parliamentarians to request information from the government on specific topics. While often less extensive than a “Große Anfrage” (major inquiry), these questions nevertheless carry significant weight and typically necessitate a formal response from the responsible ministry.
The House of World Cultures, located in Berlin, is a significant venue for contemporary art and culture from outside Europe. It plays a crucial role in presenting international artistic works, fostering critical discourse, and promoting intercultural understanding within Germany. Therefore, parliamentary interest in its financial health, programmatic quality, and strategic direction is a natural reflection of its importance in the national cultural framework.
This inquiry is expected to contribute to a more transparent understanding of the HKW’s operations and its future trajectory, ultimately ensuring its continued contribution to Germany’s vibrant cultural scene. Further details on the specific questions and subsequent responses will likely become available as the parliamentary process unfolds.
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Drucksachen published ’21/1235: Kleine Anfrage Finanzierung, Programm und Ausrichtung des Hauses der Kulturen der Welt (PDF)’ at 2025-08-14 10:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.