Solingen names Maria Carroccio Ricchiuti as new equality officer for 2026

A sociologist with a vision for fairness, Ricchiuti steps into a pivotal role. Can her strategies reshape equality in Solingen by bridging policy and action?

, and Administrator

2026 March 27 . 7:01 AM

1 min read

The image shows a map of Europe with the gender equality index 2017 work overview. The map is... — The image shows a map of Europe with the gender equality index 2017 work overview. The map is divided into different colors, each representing a different gender, and the text on the left side of the image provides further information about the index.

Solingen names Maria Carroccio Ricchiuti as new equality officer for 2026

Solingen has appointed Maria Carroccio Ricchiuti as its new equality officer, effective April 2026. She takes over from Aldona Fenz, who is leaving the role to pursue fresh professional opportunities. The city has highlighted Ricchiuti's experience and qualifications as key strengths for advancing equality in the region. Ricchiuti brings a strong background to the position. A trained sociologist, she holds a master's degree in Community Development. Since late 2018, she has led Solingen's municipal coordination of the state initiative No Degree Without a Future, focusing on career support and integration.

Her priorities in the new role include fostering fair participation, equal opportunity, and diversity. She plans to tackle these goals through collaboration and open discussions with both the local administration and the wider community. A central focus will also be on preventing and addressing gender-based violence.

Ricchiuti aims to connect legal equality standards with practical, day-to-day implementation. Her approach emphasises closing the gap between policy and real-world impact for residents. The appointment marks a shift in Solingen's equality office, with Ricchiuti set to begin her term in early 2026. Her experience in social development and administrative coordination is expected to shape the city's ongoing efforts in diversity and inclusion. The outgoing officer, Aldona Fenz, will move on to new challenges after her tenure.