Reporters Without Borders deplores "hostility" in the East
According to a report by the non-governmental organization, local journalists in Saxony and Thuringia are experiencing aggression and physical violence, including death threats.
News zu #Society
Study: Mental illnesses among girls on the rise
Anxiety, depression, eating disorders: more and more girls in Saxony are struggling with them. What a new study shows - and why doctors are sounding the alarm.
Dresden expects moderate population growth until 2040
Dresden is growing - but not as fast as expected. What planned company expansions and the influx of skilled workers mean for the city's age structure.
Chimpanzees share better in a group
Can apes think sustainably? Researchers at the Max Planck Institute in Leipzig have given chimpanzees a tricky task: Snack on yogurt or save it for the group? The result is surprising. Larger groups act much more cooperatively than pairs. The decisive factors are tolerance and the behavior of the leader. The findings could also be relevant for human societies.
Too few staff at Saxony's daycare centers
According to a study, only one percent of daycare centers in Saxony have the recommended number of staff. What this means for childcare.
German Association of Cities calls for immediate aid and structural reforms
No money for swimming pools, playgrounds, culture - more and more local authorities have hardly any scope to do more than their mandatory tasks. They are calling for urgent support.
Cell phone bans at secondary schools too?
From February, cell phones will be taboo in Saxony's elementary school. And Saxony's Minister of Education can imagine a more far-reaching ban.
Kretschmer: "Keeping the history of the Hungarian-Germans alive"
Almost 50,000 Hungarian-Germans came to Saxony. Together with Hungary's head of state, the Prime Minister remembers their fate.
Pigeons in the city: between ban and voluntary work
Pigeons are part of the cityscape in Saxony's major cities. However, instead of fixed concepts, the cities rely on feeding bans and the commitment of volunteers.
Winter weather and infections cause blood donations to plummet
The number of blood donations in Saxony, Berlin and Brandenburg is falling significantly due to snow, icy conditions and infections. Why the shortage is particularly critical.
Winter weather causes blood shortage at Leipzig University Hospital
Icy weather and a wave of colds are slowing down blood donors: Why every blood donation in Leipzig counts now - and which blood type is particularly urgently needed.
Around 10,000 fans expected at the ball in front of the Semperoper
At least once a year, Dresden revolves around itself. The Semper Opera Ball attracts many onlookers because of its celebrity guests. There is also always plenty of partying in front of the opera house.
Mini livers from the petri dish to help patients
Over two million people die of liver disease every year. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute in Dresden have now developed a three-dimensional liver model from real patient cells. The mini-liver can mimic important functions and should help to better understand diseases, test new drugs and develop personalized therapies. The study was published in Nature.
Food banks in Saxony struggle with rising costs
Despite generous donations of goods, the food banks in Saxony are experiencing rising expenditure. The association is still dependent on support.
"Animals are not gifts, Christmas or not"
Associations warn against giving animals as presents at Christmas. Some animal shelters have a freeze on placements until January. However, anyone who wants to help the dogs or cats can do so.
Minister calls for caution when handling fireworks
Many serious firework accidents have occurred in Saxony in recent years. Meanwhile, Economics Minister Panter is hoping for common sense in dealing with fireworks.
Telephone counseling: Loneliness a growing problem
Every fourth call to the telephone counseling service is about loneliness. Diakonie is therefore calling for more support to help those affected.
Actress Laura Lippmann stands up for the deaf
Many people know her from "GZSZ": In "SOKO Wismar", Laura Lippmann plays a murder suspect. As a private person, she wants to make society fairer. The star from Halle translates sign language.
Women earn six percent less than men
Six percent less pay for women - despite equal starting salaries. How the gap has widened over the years and where Saxony stands in comparison to other federal states.
Saxony is heading for less than four million inhabitants
It has long been known that Saxony's population is shrinking. A new forecast shows that the population could fall below the four million mark as early as 2026.
Children's Rights Index: Saxony only in midfield
Enough pediatricians, but too little say: The Children's Rights Index shows where Saxony's children benefit - and where there is an urgent need to catch up.
Red wine and little stress - the secret of a 111-year-old
Ilse Neumann from near Leipzig still knows stories from the imperial era. The 111-year-old is one of the oldest people in Germany. What is her recipe for old age?
Greens call for an end to private New Year's Eve fireworks in Saxony
Every New Year's Eve causes stress for animals and rescue services. The Green Party is pushing for an end to private fireworks and proposing alternatives.
Gröditz takes top prize in city center competition
Gröditz wins the Saxon city center competition against 60 projects. What makes the concept around the market square special in the eyes of the jury.
Thousands of young Saxons receive mail from the Bundeswehr
The German government wants to use a questionnaire to find out which young people are eligible for the Bundeswehr - but how many Saxons would be affected?
From flop to find: Advent swap meets take off
In Dresden and Leipzig, dusty objects are turned into new treasures. If you leave something, you can take something else in return. What and where you can swap in December.
Fewer donations in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia
The Donations Council presents an interim assessment of the first nine months. The willingness to donate in Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Thuringia is lower than elsewhere. What do people give on average?
More than a moped: How the Simson became a political issue
Schwalbe, Star, Sperber, S50 and S51: GDR two-wheelers are now cult. The AfD has discovered the East German theme - other parties are following suit. But a fan from Kassel has his very own perspective.
ZDF report shows everyday life in Dresden's Prohlis district
How do people in Prohlis experience their everyday lives? The ZDF report accompanies residents and shows what makes the district special despite the challenges.
Sandra Hüller reads children's texts for a good cause in Leipzig
Hollywood star Sandra Hüller reads children's texts that make you think - and for a good cause. What the little authors reveal in their stories amazes even the actress.
Why there are not public toilets everywhere
While strolling, between appointments, while waiting for the streetcar - suddenly you have to go to the toilet. But where? And how much does it actually cost the cities?
Helplines are often called in Saxony
People looking for help in Saxony often pick up the phone. It is not only older people who are affected by loneliness. The Left Party is calling on the government to take action.
Ash diamond or forest grave? What is allowed in Saxony
Saxony regulates funerals more strictly than other federal states. However, the individual wishes of relatives are increasing. What is possible and what is not - and why this could soon change.
NSU documentation center in Chemnitz remains
A documentation center on the NSU terror opened in Chemnitz during the Capital of Culture year. Since then, it has counted more than 13,000 visitors. The commemorative work is to be continued in 2026.
Anniversary for international pantomime festival in Dresden
Telling stories without words is the fine art of pantomime. Anyone who engages with it will discover an astonishing wealth of variations.
Democracy Award goes to initiative in Pirna
The Solidarisches Pirna initiative is honored for its democratic commitment. Another award goes to Zwickau. In the eyes of the jury, the award winners have thus rendered outstanding services.
1 year of the Self-Determination Act - "endless relief"
For exactly twelve months now, people have been able to change their gender entry relatively easily. What the Federal Government's Queer Commissioner says about the response - and the Liebich case.
Köpping wants more speed in the integration of refugees
The number of refugees who have a job is increasing. Nevertheless, many are still dependent on social benefits. The AfD considers the benefits to be too high.
Neubauer on the "cityscape" debate: "The problem is men"
Luisa Neubauer accuses Chancellor Friedrich Merz of missing the point in the debate on security. What bothers the climate activist about the chancellor's stance.
"Happiness atlas": Saxony as happy as before the pandemic
Saxons are happier than they have been for a long time. The "Happiness Atlas" 2025 shows where the Free State shines in the national rankings and where it still lags behind.
Protests over Lindemann invitation to Leipzig Opera Ball
Till Lindemann is among the VIPs invited to celebrate at the Leipzig Opera Ball. This is met with criticism - around 200 people gathered in Leipzig with banners and whistles.
Demo for a "colorful cityscape" in Dresden
Chancellor Merz's statement about the cityscape problem caused by migrants has met with both approval and fierce criticism. He has also met with resistance in Dresden.
Democracy researcher: Merz serves resentment
Democracy researcher Oliver Decker sees Friedrich Merz's vague comments on the cityscape as an attempt to feed resentment - without going too far out on a limb.
Ukrainian receives scholarship for cosmopolitanism and tolerance
In 2009, a murder shook more than just Dresden. A young Egyptian woman was killed for racist reasons. A scholarship commemorates her to this day.
Open letter: Lindemann as VIP guest is a "fatal signal"
Till Lindemann is among the 40 or so VIPs invited to the Leipzig Opera Ball. Why an alliance clearly criticizes this.
Saxon Citizens' Award for five initiatives and associations
The Saxon Citizens' Award is intended to honor outstanding civic engagement. These are this year's award winners.
Dick Brave plays live at the Dresden Semper Opera Ball
In addition to waltzes, the Dresden Semper Opera Ball also includes a live concert. Next year, there will be rock'n'roll to be heard.
Police clear squat in the east of Leipzig
Police are investigating four people after a squat in the east of Leipzig. Supporters demonstrated peacefully.
Köpping: Care reform must not be an austerity reform
Hardly any other topic in Germany drives people as much as care in old age. This is because the costs are enormous and consume far more than those affected have in their pension.
Squatting in Leipzig - investigations against man and woman
Three houses are occupied in Leipzig at the weekend. The police are investigating after an action on the grounds of a villa.
Till Lindemann as guest of honor at the Leipzig Opera Ball
There are 40 guests on the VIP list at the Leipzig Opera Ball. One of them is Rammstein singer Till Lindemann.
"Acute shortage" - There is a lack of foster families in Saxony
Children who are placed in foster families often have traumatic experiences behind them. The need is increasing, especially in large cities. What hurdles are there?
Steinmeier: "Do not allow democracy to be damaged"
Shortly before the Day of German Unity on October 3, the mood is anything but exuberant. The Federal President knows this too. And asks the citizens to pause for a moment.
A third of citizens see differences between East and West
On the eve of German Unity Day, several surveys show that the gap between East and West is widening again - especially from the perspective of East Germans.
Commissioner for Eastern Europe for new distribution of assets
Shortly before October 3, Elisabeth Kaiser presents her annual report. She is also concerned about some trends between East and West Germany.
Commissioner for Eastern Europe takes stock of German unity
The two German states united 35 years ago. How far have they grown together?
200 years of Braille - AI makes braille even more versatile
Braille remains irreplaceable for blind people - even in the age of artificial intelligence. How digital technology complements braille and creates new possibilities.
Slight majority of East Germans see unification as a gain
Shortly before the Day of German Unity, a survey explored the attitudes of East Germans. How do people view reunification?
More prostitutes reported - Greens warn of unreported cases
Officially, just under 1,000 prostitutes are registered in Saxony. However, advice centers speak of more than 1,400 contacts. Green MP Meier sees a considerable number of unreported cases.
CSD and counter-protest in Görlitz - police separate groups
The CSD in Görlitz also crossed the border. But right-wing extremists also mobilized, also on the German and Polish sides.
Around 400 people are waiting for organ donations in Saxony
Organ donation remains a rare commodity: although the number of transplants has increased, the waiting list is still long.
Dementia deaths in Saxony have more than doubled since 2014
In Saxony, the number of deaths from dementia has more than doubled since 2014. Women and the very elderly are particularly affected. The Left Party is calling for decisive action.
CSD in Döbeln - Investigation after Hitler salute
Hundreds of people demonstrate at Christopher Street Day (CSD) in Döbeln. At the same time, a counter-rally runs through the town in central Saxony. The police record several criminal offenses.
East Germans in executive chairs? Proportion rising only slowly
For the federal government, diversity in management positions means that East Germans are also represented according to their share of the population. However, the development is slow.
Food banks receive 400,000 euros - start for applications
The food banks in Saxony can apply for funding for investments until October 6.
Ruppendorf wins state competition "Our village has a future"
17 villages took part in the state competition "Our village has a future". The winners have now been announced. First prize goes to the Osterzgebirge. The winners have scored points.
Dialect festival "Gogelmosch" celebrates Saxon dialect
Saxon on the big stage: cabaret, comedy and satire meet dialect stars - what the "Gogelmosch" festival wants to achieve with identity and community.
Just do it - Commissioner for Eastern Europe honors initiatives
Many villages now lack a pub or store - and sometimes also a place to exchange ideas. What can be done? Dozens of ideas are being honored in the "Machen 2025" competition.
Head of deaconry: "Have a nose for where the fire is greatest"
The voluntary welfare sector is important for what holds the state together at its core. However, the work of the associations is often slowed down by excessive control.
Union parliamentary groups: Planning transport and health together
The CDU and CSU parliamentary group leaders from Bavaria, Saxony and Thuringia are forging closer ties. There are enough cross-state challenges.
"Day of the Saxons" starts with rain - 250,000 guests expected
From music and funfair to a parade: the "Day of the Saxons" celebrates its anniversary - for the first time with symbolic border crossings and encounters on the "Democracy Mile".
Several hundred people celebrate CSD in Zwickau
"Zwickau - L(i)ebe Bunt" is the motto of Christopher Street Day in Zwickau. The streets of the city center are a hive of activity.
Renewed debate about the gender entry
The imminent imprisonment of the right-wing extremist Liebich is fueling the debate about the Self-Determination Act. Will the simplified change of gender entry be withdrawn?
Trabi, Wartburg & Co: This is how much GDR cars are worth today
After reunification, many owners couldn't get rid of them quickly enough, and today they are in demand as classic cars: classic cars from the GDR. How many of these vehicles are still around?
Trabi, Wartburg & Co: This is how much GDR cars are worth today
After reunification, many owners couldn't get rid of them quickly enough, and today they are in demand as classic cars: classic cars from the GDR. How many of these vehicles are still around?
Schloss Proschwitz defends itself against appropriation by the AfD
Proschwitz Castle near Meissen is known for its vineyards and culture. Footage of the estate has now appeared in an advertisement for the AfD. The owners of the castle are fighting back.
500 meter long table: 9th Dresden banquet for diversity
Once a year, Dresden's civil society invites people to a banquet in the middle of the city. The ninth edition will once again set an example in the state capital.
Difficult situation: Study on the situation of the long-term unemployed
Anyone who has not had a job for at least a year is considered to be long-term unemployed. Those affected often fall into a disastrous cycle. Experts speak of a self-reinforcing condition.
Athlete with donor organ: "Grateful for this life"
Paul Knüpfer received a new liver four years ago. Today, the 34-year-old is taking part in the World Transplant Games in Dresden - and showing what is possible with such a donation.
Goodbye big city: Berlin family lives in the Ore Mountains on trial
Christmas markets, ski slopes and nature attract a large number of tourists to the Ore Mountains every year. But living and working here? A family from Berlin puts it to the test.
World Transplant Games - Criticism of organ donation policy
Athletes with a donated organ from all over the world meet in Dresden. They show what makes such a donation possible. In Germany, many patients wait a long time.
"Gap is widening" - food banks in Saxony under pressure
Rising costs and more people in need - but fewer and fewer donations to distribute. What's next for the food banks in the country?
Klepsch: Building the Wall was a symbol of political oppression
The Wall was built 64 years ago. This sealed the division of Germany.
Queer community at the CSD in Bautzen - counter-protests
Last year, the CSD in Bautzen was met with hatred and aggression. How is the situation in eastern Saxony this time?
Bautzen district restricts right of assembly for CSD
Last year, there were aggressive right-wing extremist protests at the CSD in Bautzen. This time, the district administration wants to prevent this with bans.
CSD in Bautzen: Police expect up to 3,000 participants
Several thousand people are expected in Bautzen for Christopher Street Day. The police are preparing for the arrival of numerous CSD opponents.
Almost every tenth child receives educational support
If parents are overwhelmed or conflicts are simmering in the family, parenting support comes into play. Counseling services are used particularly often.
After anti-Semitism debate - university draws conclusions
A controversial work of art at Burg Halle triggers a debate about anti-Semitism and artistic freedom. The university responds with an ethics council - for more guidance in future conflicts.
From coffee to tampons: DDR Museum seeks East German products
One more rummage in the attic: The Berlin DDR Museum is looking for everyday products from the East for its exhibition. Which treasures are particularly hard to find 35 years later.
Mayor warns of increasing influence of neo-Nazis
Nazi slogans on the walls, teachers and pupils in fear: in the small Lusatian town of Spremberg, the mayor is now publicly sounding the alarm about the appearance of the far-right scene.
Saxony pays full honorary allowance retrospectively
Volunteers will now continue to receive 40 euros per month with the approved double budget. Previously, only partial amounts had been paid out. This had caused criticism.
More singles in Saxony - new dating formats in the state
Single people in Saxony are becoming more - and more inventive: from alpaca hikes for singles to live dating on stage. The latter also strengthens friendships.
Police secure Christopher Street Day in Pirna
Christopher Street Day is repeatedly the target of protests by right-wing extremists. According to the police, gatherings in Pirna remained trouble-free until the early evening.
"We're here to stay!": Peaceful parade at CSD Leipzig
After the protests by right-wing extremists, this year's CSD in Leipzig remains peaceful. 19,000 people march through the trade fair city. The motto is reminiscent of the Peaceful Revolution of 1989.
"We're here to stay!" Many thousands of people at CSD Leipzig
Following the protests by right-wing extremists, this year's CSD in Leipzig remains peaceful. Thousands march through the trade fair city at the climax. The motto is reminiscent of the Peaceful Revolution of 1989.
NSU Documentation Center counts more than 3,000 visitors
Saxony was once the retreat of the NSU terrorists. Since the end of May, there has therefore been a new place of learning and remembrance for the victims of right-wing terror in Chemnitz. And it is very popular.
Greens want to increase citizen participation in politics
The Greens say that co-determination in political decisions creates more trust and greater acceptance. They are therefore introducing a law for better citizen participation.
Culture in the countryside: federal government funds two projects in Saxony
When there is nothing going on in the youth center or community meeting place, frustration often grows in rural areas. The "Aller.Land" project aims to counteract this. The funded projects have now been determined.
New funding program for democratic education launched
Leipzig strengthens local players: New funding program supports civil society projects and promotes democratic education until 2025
Semperoper Ball 2026: Many tickets already gone
The Dresden Semper Opera Ball is a fixed date in the cultural and event calendar. Guests come from far and wide to dance in the famous opera house - film glamor has been announced for 2026.