New queer commissioner wants to advocate for more acceptance

Sophie Koch, SPD member of the state parliament in Saxony, wants to become the new federal government commissioner for more acceptance of sexual and gender diversity in Germany. The federal cabinet in Berlin appointed the 31-year-old according to government information. The education officer had already campaigned for the interests of queer people at state level in recent years.

Koch told the German Press Agency: "I am part of the community myself and know from my home in Saxony what it means to live diversity in rural areas." She sees her role primarily as an advocate for queer people throughout Germany.

The Federal Ministry for Family Affairs emphasizes that all people should live equally and without discrimination, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. The core task of the commissioner is therefore to work with other ministries to raise awareness in this area and strengthen cohesion.

Commissioner wants to bring people together

Koch wants to work closely with civil society in her new role. Trust is key. "That's why I want to bring people together and do everything I can to build bridges for the acceptance of sexual and gender diversity." As a state politician, Koch also deals with legal and European issues, among other things.

Koch's predecessor, Sven Lehmann from the Green Party, was the first federal queer commissioner to launch various initiatives for more self-determination for queer people and greater acceptance.

Trans people are made into the enemy

The Queer Diversity Association (LSVD⁺) cites studies on the situation of queer people in Germany, stating that "anti-feminist, sexist and trans-hostile attitudes" exist at a high level. They can be found in all social groups, but especially on the right side of the political spectrum. "This reflects the fact that feminists and trans people are obviously being made into a central enemy by parties and movements on the far right spectrum."