Baden-Württemberg may expand free school meals ahead of 2026 elections
The debate over free school meals for disadvantaged pupils has gained attention in Baden-Württemberg. Cem Özdemir, the Green Party’s lead candidate for the 2026 state election, has proposed including free lunches in the Startchancen initiative. The programme already supports schools in deprived areas with funding for staff and facilities.
Özdemir argues that nutritious food is essential for students’ health and academic performance. He wants free lunches added to the Startchancen scheme, which currently funds up to 4,000 schools across Germany—including 540 in Baden-Württemberg. The initiative focuses on improving learning spaces and hiring extra staff, particularly in primary schools facing social challenges.
The proposal ties into broader efforts to support vulnerable children through education funding. If implemented, free lunches could become part of the Startchancen programme’s existing support for schools. The outcome may depend on the election results and further policy decisions.
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