Baden-Baden mayor seeks early retirement amid rising health-related exits

A mayor’s plea for early retirement exposes a deeper crisis. Why are more public servants in Germany collapsing under pressure—and what’s next for leadership?

, and Administrator

2025 November 29 . 5:43 PM

1 min read

In this picture we can see the man in the front, wearing black jacket and standing on the railway... — In this picture we can see the man in the front, wearing black jacket and standing on the railway station. Behind there is a iron pole and shed. On the right corner we can see the railway track and brown buildings.

Dietmar Späth, the mayor of Baden-Baden, has been on long-term sick leave and is now seeking early retirement due to incapacity. His case will be reviewed by the Karlsruhe Regional Council before Christmas, which will determine whether he can take on alternative duties instead. The decision comes amid growing concerns over the mental and physical toll on local officials across the region.

Späth’s situation reflects a broader trend in Baden-Württemberg, where the number of civil servants retiring due to permanent incapacity has steadily risen. In 2023, 895 officials left their roles for health reasons, up from 880 in 2022 and 810 in 2021. Causes range from accidents and serious illnesses to depression and burnout, with increasing pressure on those in leadership positions.

The regional council’s ruling on Späth’s case will clarify whether he can continue in a different capacity or proceed with early retirement. The outcome will be closely watched, given the rising strain on public servants in southwestern Germany. Officials continue to monitor the situation as workloads and external pressures grow.