Ines Claus pushes for more women in CDU leadership ahead of key election

A bold bid to reshape Germany's CDU from within. Can Ines Claus turn her vision for women's leadership into real change?

, and Administrator

2026 May 5 . 8:04 AM

1 min read

The image shows a cartoon of three women standing and holding a paper with the words "Votes for... — The image shows a cartoon of three women standing and holding a paper with the words "Votes for Women: The Women's Social & Political Union" written on it. The women are wearing traditional clothing and have determined expressions on their faces, suggesting that they are ready to take on the challenge of voting for women. The paper they are holding is white with black text, and the background is a light blue sky with white clouds.

Ines Claus to become deputy chairwoman of CDU leader Merz - Ines Claus pushes for more women in CDU leadership ahead of key election

Ines Claus, leader of Hesse’s CDU parliamentary group, is running for one of six deputy chair positions under federal CDU leader Friedrich Merz. She will stand for election at the party’s federal conference in Stuttgart on 20–21 February. Currently, she is the only Hessian CDU representative on the party’s inner federal executive committee.

Claus argues that boosting women’s representation in parliament requires strong direct candidates in constituencies. She rejects quota-based lists as ineffective, instead pushing for better visibility and practical support. Her approach focuses on ensuring half of society has a seat at the decision-making table.

To make party involvement easier for mothers, Claus proposes broadcasting evening meetings digitally. She also wants improved conditions for women in local CDU chapters. Her goal is to increase female participation, believing this will enhance both policy-making and electoral success. Claus insists that more women in the CDU would strengthen the party’s performance. She highlights that representation matters, but practical changes are needed to turn this into reality.

The election will take place on the first day of the CDU’s federal conference. If successful, Claus would become one of six deputy chairs under Merz. Her campaign centres on accessibility, representation, and better conditions for women in the party.