Art and culture have a special significance in today's society. This applies, of course, to the traditional promotion of art and culture, but also to their increasingly important role in promoting cohesion in an increasingly heterogeneous society. Where should dialogue between different groups take place when traditional meeting places (such as markets) are disappearing from public life? It makes perfect sense to use existing cultural institutions and buildings, to continue to open them up to everyone, to develop them further and to strengthen them. In addition, in
many other areas, great hopes are being placed on the appeal of art and culture, for example for the reinvention of city centers, for an attractive business location, and for socio-cultural urban development.

CDU: A diverse, vibrant cultural landscape and the preservation of our cultural infrastructure are particularly important to us. We focus on planning security, cultural education, strengthening both the independent scene and municipal institutions, and connecting "high culture," socio-culture, and volunteer work.

AfD: In the theater industry, we are particularly fond of the classical works represented by the State Theater. In the visual arts, the State Museum and the new Ernst Museum are of great importance to the city.

SPD: Wiesbaden has a diverse cultural landscape – from large institutions such as the State Theater, the Museum Wiesbaden, and the Schlachthof Cultural Center to independent theaters, local history museums, and socio-cultural initiatives. Preserving this diversity is a priority for us because it strengthens cohesion, democratic exchange, and encounters. We are committed to a balanced coexistence of state and non-profit institutions and attach particular importance to cultural education and participation. Culture should be visible, accessible, and available to all. We see cultural policy as a policy for the future and for the location that promotes the identity and attractiveness of our city.

GREENS: Only in a diverse cultural landscape can Wiesbaden remain vibrant, democratic, and sustainable. We pay particular attention to the independent cultural scene. We want to reduce its structural disadvantage compared to state and municipal institutions and give it more room to develop. That is why we are committed to ensuring that the state fulfills its responsibilities more effectively, for example with regard to the state theater and the city museum. This will give the city more leeway to strengthen the independent scene in a targeted manner.

In particular, doing something about the lack of rehearsal rooms, studios, and exhibition spaces is a political priority for us. That is why we consistently combine culture and urban development – especially in the city center. We also want to think big on a small scale and include cultural investments in every neighborhood development.

FDP: The FDP fights for the entire spectrum of culture – from high culture to socio-culture, from established institutions to the independent scene. Culture should take place in the city center just as much as in the suburbs.

We are committed to: greater planning security through reliable funding, less bureaucracy for cultural workers, the strengthening of cultural spaces, and greater visibility for cultural offerings. 

We defend artistic freedom against attacks from the municipal authorities and the state government (Netrebko performance) as well as against attacks from extremists. 

DIE LINKE: The implementation, compliance, and further development of the cultural development plan are of particular concern to me. Ultimately, what matters is not what I or my parliamentary group likes, but that Wiesbaden offers as wide a range of cultural activities as possible. Only with appropriate cultural contributions is it possible to defend and further develop democratic achievements. This existentially necessary contribution of culture is particularly important to us and must be given special support.

Volt: For Volt Wiesbaden, culture is a central component of an open, diverse, and vibrant urban society. Strengthening the independent cultural scene, fair funding structures, and low-threshold access to cultural offerings for all generations and social groups are our top priorities.

Following the example of the Netherlands, we are committed to reliable, multi-year cultural funding. This creates planning security for cultural creators, enables sustainable projects, and strengthens Wiesbaden's cultural landscape in the long term. 

We want to digitize funding processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles in order to integrate culture more strongly into urban development, education, and digitization.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: One of the Bürgerliste's priorities has always been the preservation of our cultural and historical heritage, in particular more consistent monument protection and an appropriate presentation of the city's history, both through a sensible city museum and through better presentation of the city's history in the street space. We are also committed to better promotion and support for smaller cultural initiatives, as well as increased support for local history and heritage associations.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Our state, the state capital of Wiesbaden, and cultural policy are in urgent need of democratic renewal. In response to the threat posed by the NATO command NSATU in Wiesbaden Erbenheim, the stationing of US medium-range missiles, and increasing municipal militarization, BSW-Wiesbaden wants to make peace, health, sports, and joie de vivre the focus of future cultural policy.

FWG: The promotion of culture is primarily reflected in construction measures that are intended to benefit cultural purposes. For this reason, we are in favor of further developing the Walhalla project and implementing the political decisions made to date to move the city museum to the sports arena in order to bring the Nassau antiquities out of storage and make them accessible to the public. Since space is expensive and limited, we should consider how spaces can be used by multiple cultural creators. We believe that new thematic focuses, such as "Filmstadt Wiesbaden" (Wiesbaden Film City), are particularly desirable. We are fundamentally in favor of a broad range of cultural offerings without favoring any particular movement.

PdF: Wiesbaden has a rich and diverse cultural landscape to offer. This must be preserved and expanded. The focus here is on promoting culture in urban spaces (e.g., improv theater on Neroberg), cultural education, cultural participation of different milieus, and theater and music festivals. In principle, all cultural offerings should be given space to flourish.

FREIE WÄHLER: For FREIE WÄHLER Wiesbaden, culture is a central component of municipal services. We focus on strengthening the independent scene, securing and renovating existing cultural properties, promoting cultural offerings in all local districts, and interlinking culture with urban development and the economy. Culture must not be concentrated in the Kurhaus area, but must also be visible in Biebrich, Dotzheim, Kastel Kostheim, Erbenheim, and Westend. We want to structurally secure existing institutions and enable new initiatives in a targeted manner.

CDU: A diverse, vibrant cultural landscape and the preservation of our cultural infrastructure are particularly important to us. We focus on planning security, cultural education, strengthening both the independent scene and municipal institutions, and connecting "high culture," socio-culture, and volunteer work.

AfD: Freedom of art is one of the most important values in a democracy. It applies to all positions, not just those that are politically acceptable. Culture must not become an ideological instrument.

In fact, however, artistic freedom is under massive threat. But definitely not from the right, but from the left, keyword "cancel culture." Left-wing forces at universities or art institutions cannot bear to be confronted with other opinions. Another threat comes from radical Islam, which often manifests itself in the desecration of sacred works of art in churches and elsewhere. 

SPD: We resolutely oppose all attempts to politically appropriate art and culture or reduce it to a narrow "national culture." Freedom of art is an indispensable asset of our democracy. A cosmopolitan and diverse cultural scene is part of Wiesbaden's identity. For us, protection therefore means not only financial support, but also a clear political stance. Cultural institutions must be able to rely on the backing of city policy. At the same time, we promote cooperation between institutions and the independent scene. After all, a vibrant culture is always an expression of a robust democracy. We take a clear and unambiguous stance on this issue and will resolutely put a stop to nationalist appropriation.

GREENS: Culture is a driving force for an open and democratic society. It must be allowed to be free, critical, and even uncomfortable in order to provide new impetus. This makes it all the more important to clearly reject attempts at political influence. 

We are already seeing undemocratic forces attempting to instrumentalize cultural funding—including in Wiesbaden, where the AfD wants to withdraw funding from the independent scene. We are resolutely opposed to this: through transparency, solidarity with cultural institutions, and binding funding structures. It could be helpful to anchor the mandate to promote cultural diversity, long-term funding commitments, multi-year budgets, and a voluntary commitment to implement jury recommendations in the cultural development plan and to have this decided politically so that it remains in place even in difficult budget years. 

FDP: We will resolutely oppose attacks on artistic freedom – whether politically motivated, ideologically or morally disguised. However, artistic freedom must not be confused with a claim to public funding. Anyone who wants to use Wiesbaden's stages to spread hatred should not receive municipal funding (financially or through the provision of premises).

DIE LINKE: In recent years, there has been an increase in attacks on human dignity, cosmopolitanism, and diversity. Positions that were previously only represented by the far-right NPD are now also openly represented by the CDU and FDP (radical deportations (including of children), closed external borders, payment cards, etc.).  
The AfD is driving the so-called centrist parties before it. The Left stands against this development. By banning the AfD, pursuing good social policies, supporting civil society, and clearly standing up for fundamental democratic values, we are resisting the shift to the right. 

All cultural institutions can rely on Die Linke as a strong partner against the right. 

Volt: Volt Wiesbaden sees artistic freedom as an indispensable part of our democratic urban society. We want to protect the cultural scene by opposing all forms of hatred and intolerance. We anchor cultural institutions as places of openness and democracy and strengthen them institutionally.  

Our goal is a city where cultural participation is a matter of course: with stable structures, reliable funding, creative freedom, and European exchange. Cultural venues should remain safe spaces for diversity, dialogue, and critical debate—as an expression of Wiesbaden's cosmopolitan identity.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: The Wiesbaden cultural scene can be strengthened and protected through various measures. We consider the promotion of cultural diversity, the strengthening of democracy through culture, and the protection of artistic freedom to be important in this regard. The promotion of festivals and events helps to consolidate a diverse image of Wiesbaden.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Cosmopolitanism, diversity, and freedom are part of Wiesbaden's identity. Its Nassau roots, thermal baths, healing waters, beautiful architecture, theater, casino, museums, and cultural scene attract large numbers of tourists to Wiesbaden every year. We at BSW want to bring this old splendor back to life. We see the strengthening of the cultural scene in a socio-cultural network which, in addition to the classical cultural scene, will also lead to closer networking and better mutual participation in all districts, across departments, including educational institutions (schools, universities), sports, health, social, religious, and integration institutions. A university in Wiesbaden would also greatly strengthen the cultural scene.

FWG: For us, the cultural scene is definitely worth protecting. It is one of the soft location factors that make Wiesbaden attractive and livable. Not only from a tourism perspective, but also for reasons that can play a significant role in individual cases when it comes to business decisions on location. Therefore, any attacks on its diverse understanding or measures of censorship directed at the cultural scene must be rejected on principle. It must be the city's task to keep an eye on all directions and not to promote any one-sided trend.

PdF: Artistic freedom is a fundamental right protected in Germany by Article 5, paragraph 3 of the Basic Law, which guarantees creative expression without state censorship. Restrictions only apply in the context of the protection of minors or in the event of a violation of personal rights. Artistic freedom is non-negotiable. This must be lived out clearly, openly, and sustainably.

FREIE WÄHLER: We are expressly committed to artistic freedom and a pluralistic urban society. For us, protection means clear funding criteria, transparent decision-making processes, and reliable institutional support that is not dependent on short-term political moods. We support civil society alliances against extremism and advocate for a clear local political stance when cultural institutions come under pressure. At the same time, we expect all funded institutions to adhere to the free democratic basic order.

CDU: We want to consistently implement structural funding instruments, spatial concepts, and investment projects from the cultural development plan. We achieve planning security through multi-year funding agreements, early budget decisions, and reliable subsidy structures. For us, keeping promises is a core element of responsible cultural policy.

AfD: Planning security does not come from constantly new concepts, but from sound budget management. Existing institutions should be given long-term, realistic financing models. Projects must be evaluated regularly instead of being automatically continued.

SPD: For us, the cultural development plan is the central orientation for the coming years. We have revised the funding regulations for independent cultural institutions and made them more transparent in order to strengthen planning security and reliability. In the future, we want to make subsidies more comparable and develop instruments for greater transparency. Our focus is on clear financing structures, the visibility of culture, and cultural participation. In view of social change, we want to reach new target groups together with cultural creators. The Cultural Development Plan remains a dynamic instrument that is regularly reviewed and updated in order to create sustainable perspectives.

GREENS: We want to consistently implement key projects in the Cultural Development Plan. This includes providing greater support to cultural institutions in the socio-ecological transformation and systematically integrating culture into neighborhood development. 

We also see closer cooperation with housing associations as a future priority in order to find or create new spaces for rehearsals, performances, and exhibitions. At the same time, we want to further strengthen measures to raise public awareness of culture and cultural participation so that as many people as possible have access to art and culture. Reliable funding structures and long-term perspectives are the key to planning security. 

FDP: The highest priority must be to ensure reliable funding for cultural institutions. Only then should further steps be discussed.

DIE LINKE: The cultural development plan should be implemented as fully as possible. Die Linke is committed to reintroducing double budgets in the future and extending funding commitments to five years. In addition, there should be annual inflation adjustments for institutions.
To finance this, we need a higher trade tax, the introduction of a packaging tax on disposable packaging, and more tax auditors. Furthermore, the costs for events such as the Wine Ball, which despite high subsidies already exclude most people due to the admission prices, should be saved. 

Volt: Our focus is on consistently implementing the core areas prioritized in the cultural development plan and integrating them more closely with each other.

We can achieve greater planning security for the independent cultural scene through structural changes such as 

• reliable, multi-year funding periods 
• transparent, comprehensible funding decisions
• greater consideration of cost increases
• an active spatial strategy for culture. 

We are committed to strategic vacancy management and new models of cooperation between the independent scene and established cultural institutions—for example, in the form of shared use, program design, and development of cultural venues such as the Walhalla. Our goal is a cultural policy that is sustainable in the long term.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: We consider it important to increase the visibility of culture in Wiesbaden and to improve cultural participation for all, e.g., by introducing children and young people to culture at school. Socially disadvantaged people must also be enabled to participate in culture. 

We consider securing spaces for both publicly funded and non-profit cultural institutions to be one of the central tasks of cultural policy.  

The introduction and expansion of digital concepts can be helpful, also in bringing culture to the public and better connecting cultural creators.
Securing the budget for institutional cultural promotion of the independent scene in the municipal culture budget could increase planning security for the independent scene.

THE PARTY: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: As in other departments, BSW-Wiesbaden would like to implement measures for control, monitoring, evaluation, and quality management, topic area 9) Organization and objectivity of the Cultural Office, so that the city administration is continuously monitored and improved. 

FWG: According to the current evaluation report from 2025, the field of action "Communication/Cooperation" has not yet been satisfactorily implemented. The degree of implementation is only 29%. For the next term of the city parliament, the task is therefore to positively influence this field, especially since the political committees have an influence on municipal institutions such as city marketing and public relations. The city must be made the "flagship" for culture to the outside world.

Planning security for the independent cultural scene also includes creating framework conditions that are binding and transparent for all and must be adhered to by all. 

PdF: Fundamentally, the topic of culture is very broad. And therefore, in our view, the first step is to incorporate the systematics and procedures of cultural promotion, drawing on expert knowledge, even more into the recommendations made to the city of Wiesbaden's politicians. Artists must present what is primarily needed for the concrete realization of their work. Clear funding measures will then be based on this in the next step.

FREIE WÄHLER: Multi-year funding for institutional operators with a term of at least three years is key. Successful projects should be given the opportunity to become permanent. Funding decisions must be made early in the budget process so that institutions can carry out serious personnel planning and program development. We advocate regular evaluation, but without bureaucratic overload for small operators.

CDU: The share of the budget allocated to culture must at least be stabilized and increased in the future. Culture is not a voluntary luxury, but shapes identity and location quality. We want multi-year budget lines with inflation compensation and clear priorities for key projects. If the budget volume increases, the share allocated to culture should increase in the same proportion.

AfD: More money alone does not solve structural problems. We want to use existing funds more efficiently, reduce duplicate structures, and set priorities. Sustainable financing means above all reliability for functioning services—not always new subsidy programs.

SPD: Culture is part of urban public services, not a luxury. That is why we are committed to a stable and growing culture budget that meets increasing demands. Cuts would weaken institutions and social cohesion. Since 2016, Wiesbaden's culture budget has increased by 43%; in 2026, it will grow by a further €2.5 million to just under €60 million, including €235,000 more for institutionally funded institutions. Despite limited resources, we have pushed through these subsidies. Investments in culture strengthen urban development, tourism, and the economy. Less dynamic growth compared to social spending is the result of external requirements, not political will.

GREENS: Culture is not a luxury, but a cornerstone of our civil society and urban development. Despite difficult budgetary circumstances, we have so far succeeded in preserving cultural diversity in Wiesbaden and even setting new accents. In the long term, however, the culture budget must continue to grow so that, in addition to securing the existence of existing cultural offerings, key projects such as the Culture Campus, Walhalla, or a new city museum can be further developed and realized. 

That is why we are working together with other cities to improve the financial resources available to local authorities, which have had to shoulder more and more new tasks in recent years (this inevitably shifts the balance in the budget). And we want to achieve a reduction in the state theater's burden on the city so that more funds can be invested in the independent scene. 

FDP: The city's financial resources are limited. Every euro can only be spent once. That is precisely why it is so important to prioritize spending – both across the entire budget and in individual budgets. Rot-Rot-Grün-Volt has lacked this spending discipline in recent years, even though the city's reserves have been completely depleted.

DIE LINKE: The share of culture in the funds available to the city for planning is not declining rapidly. A growing proportion of expenditure, particularly in the social sector, consists of transitory items (e.g., housing allowance or SGB II benefits). Due to growing need, this expenditure is constantly increasing.  If these items are excluded, it becomes apparent that the share allocated to culture is stable. Nevertheless, the LHW needs more leeway to better finance so-called "voluntary services" such as culture and sports. Proposals for financing this can be found in the answer to question 3. 

Volt: We understand the expectations of cultural workers regarding the budget, but given the tight budgetary situation in the 2023-2026 operating budgets, the absolute amount for culture could only be kept constant. However, the importance of art and culture is also reflected in the investment budget, with renovation projects such as Caligari and Walhalla.

Volt is committed to long-term cultural funding. We want to develop reliable financing based on the Dutch model with target agreements and multi-year planning security.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: Setting a minimum percentage of the budget could remedy this situation. In good budget years, the percentage can be increased, and in bad years, it should not fall below this minimum limit. This would ensure sustainable funding for existing projects.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Based on figures determined by quality management, projects and measures should be prioritized in competition with other departments of the social and cultural network in the municipal budget. The facilities that are more popular and used more by Wiesbaden citizens and visitors will receive a correspondingly larger allocation. Such cross-departmental QM measures would ensure sustainable funding. 

FWG: In order to enter into this discussion, which is necessary for the further development of Wiesbaden, it is first necessary to conduct an expert examination of the available expert reports so that all parties involved have a common basis. Whether there is actually a "strange imbalance" cannot be determined with certainty at this time. Only once a basis recognised by all sides is in place will there be scope for concrete measures that could aim to obtain appropriate funding for existing projects. Nor is it automatic that individual budgets must be increased when budget expenditure rises. For us, this is not a needs-based budget policy.

PdF: The Party of Progress was not represented in the city parliament in previous legislative periods and did not participate in any municipal budget deliberations. However, as citizens of this city, we are increasingly hearing that there are very different priorities for municipal projects. In some areas, there are shortages everywhere and nothing is happening. In other areas, such as the construction of a sports park in Rheinhöhe for €180 million, money is available. We will address this issue.

FREIE WÄHLER: We are striving for structural stabilization of the culture budget. Looking ahead, we believe it makes sense to set a target for the share of the total budget allocated to culture. Existing subsidies must be adjusted to reflect cost increases, particularly for energy, personnel, and rent. Investments in the renovation of municipal cultural properties are economically necessary in order to avoid long-term damage to buildings and rising follow-up costs. Culture is a location factor that has an indirect positive effect on retail, gastronomy, and tourism.

CDU: Project funding must finally be reliably predictable. We are committed to a fixed innovation fund, transparent award procedures, and targeted start-up financing for new businesses so that creativity does not fail due to short-term cuts.

AfD: Project funding should be more focused on quality and citizen-friendliness. Small initiatives need less bureaucracy and clear criteria. Innovation does not necessarily mean new ideas, but also new formats for existing institutions.

SPD: Project funding is an important driver of innovation and new formats. Young initiatives and cultural creators in particular are dependent on it. Entry into the cultural scene is only possible through project funding and can lead to institutional funding in the long term. The best example is the Kulturdschungel, which we were able to help gain institutional funding during this legislative period. During the budget deliberations, we were able to increase the project funding from the magistrate's draft of €80,000 to €200,000. This shows that, despite the difficult financial situation, it is important to us to continue to support young talent. Innovation needs reliable framework conditions. That is why we are committed to providing solid and adequate project funding, which we would like to increase further in the long term.

GREENS: In the recent budget discussions, we were able to increase project funding once again compared to the draft, and institutional funding also saw an increase, albeit not to the desired extent. Both pillars are indispensable for us: stable support within the framework of institutional funding for existing institutions and sufficient project funding. Innovative ideas and new concepts need freedom to develop. 

Even though difficult decisions have to be made in times of tight budgets, our goal is clear: a cultural budget that grows steadily in line with cost increases, enabling both continuity and renewal.

FDP: In the last budget discussions, we strongly demanded that savings be made first in the more lavishly funded municipal cultural institutions before independent cultural organizations have to accept losses. We continue to advocate for this. We continue to advocate for an innovation budget that only supports new cultural formats.

DIE LINKE: Project funding has not always been cut. In the 2026 budget, we have increased funding from €50,000 to €200,000. 

Volt: As already explained in question 4, Volt Wiesbaden strengthens project-based culture through reliable framework conditions. These include transparent award criteria, fixed annual funding lines for innovation and start-ups, and the possibility of multi-year project funding based on the Dutch model.

New initiatives in particular need low-threshold application procedures and advisory services. We are committed to basic institutional funding so that project funds actually create space for innovation. Greater planning security enables creative development, sustainable cooperation, and new, bold formats.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: Although the percentage of the total budget allocated to culture is declining, attempts are being made to prevent drastic cuts by further developing the KEP and focusing on innovative projects worthy of funding. A certain degree of reliability can be achieved by providing free project funds, carrying over unused funds to the following year, and providing special funding for the independent scene and start-ups.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: BSW-Wiesbaden is in favor of more quality management so that the available project funds are used effectively and specifically where they are most needed and necessary. 

7. 9 and 10 should be implemented in accordance with this regulation.

FWG: The budget developments of recent years are the responsibility of the coalition, which also sends some of the members who approved the respective budgets to the Cultural Advisory Board. Therefore, the critical undertone is incomprehensible. Incidentally, voluntary funding for culture has only been cut very slightly in recent budget rounds.

The basis for future developments would initially be an objective examination of the municipal budget in order to do justice to cultural expenditure in view of its importance. As with all other items in the budget, we are in favor of allocating funds according to need and not making blanket increases without an objective basis.

PdF: Reliability is the foundation of smooth cooperation. If the city commits to supporting culture in the long term, then commitments must also be backed up with financial resources. True to the motto: My promise is my obligation! We should be honest about what resources can be made available – and what will not work. We have to get people on board.

FREIE WÄHLER: We propose the establishment of a clearly defined innovation fund that will particularly benefit young initiatives and experimental formats. Smaller grants should be awarded in a simplified procedure. Project funds must be adequately endowed in the budget and plannable over several years. Start-ups need advice and transparent funding guidelines.

CDU: Cultural education should have a fixed and adequate place in the municipal budget and a permanent place in the concepts for all-day school care. Cooperation between schools and cultural institutions must be structurally secured and backed by clear budgets for projects and fees.

AfD: Music and art education are fundamentally important to society. However, local politics is not the right place to address this issue. After all, the content of teaching is the sole responsibility of the state.

SPD: Every child in Wiesbaden should have access to cultural activities, because cultural education is central to equal opportunities and personal development. We want to further strengthen cooperation between schools and institutions such as the state theater, the adult education center, and the music and art school, and have already discussed the issue in the relevant committee. Digital equipment and modern teaching formats are becoming increasingly important, while at the same time freelance staff need to be better protected. Cultural education should not depend on the family home.

GREENS: Cultural education is central to us. It strengthens creativity, participation, and social cohesion. That is why we launched a support program for cultural education in schools during the last legislative period. This is because it reaches all young people, regardless of their background. We want to continue and expand this program in order to anchor culture even more firmly in the heart of urban society.             

FDP: It is very important. All children should experience a theater performance at least once during their elementary school years. Cultural participation should not depend on the parents' financial situation.

DIE LINKE: Cultural education is indispensable for a vibrant democracy and part of basic public services that must be open to all. Accordingly, we demand that cultural promotion—including cultural education—be established as a mandatory task of the public sector and that states and municipalities be provided with sufficient financial resources to fulfill this task. Full-day schools and other educational programs in particular should be specifically linked to cultural and leisure activities in order to give children from non-academic and low-income households access to cultural education.

Volt: Cultural education should be a high priority in the municipal budget. It strengthens creativity, democratic skills, and social cohesion.

We are committed to promoting European exchange through greater use and support of Erasmus+. This is an important part of a vibrant European educational culture.

In addition, visits and cooperation with cultural institutions already supported by the city should not only be continued but expanded. In this way, we enable as many students as possible to have low-threshold access to art and culture.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: We believe it is very important to introduce children and young people to culture at an early age. In this respect, the promotion of cultural education in schools should be anchored in the budget.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Cultural education should be rolled out across the board as part of a socio-cultural network. In addition to schools, other social institutions such as youth centers, nursing homes, retirement homes, and other sports, integration, and religious institutions in all districts should be included.

FWG: Cultural education in schools is important to us and definitely worthy of support. Whether this also means providing for another special item in the municipal budget cannot be said at this time. In any case, cultural education in schools should be practiced in an unbureaucratic manner if cultural creators want to bring it into schools. We would like to take this opportunity to expressly acknowledge the many existing initiatives and events that familiarize schools and thus also students with urban cultural life. It is also in the interest of culture itself to inspire future visitors, sponsors, and committed individuals to engage with the scene, and not just as consumers.

PdF: There is currently a support program for cultural education in schools in Wiesbaden. This is to be welcomed and should be continued in this form.

FREIE WÄHLER: Cultural education must be visible as an independent priority in the city budget. We want to systematically expand cooperation between schools, music schools, theater initiatives, museums, and independent artists. We see great opportunities for theater projects, music programs, visual arts, and media culture formats in the all-day school sector. The goal is early cultural participation regardless of the parental home.

CDU: None of the projects mentioned have reliable funding yet. After reviewing the finances, we will ensure that priorities are set in a transparent manner with a binding investment plan. The renovation of the Walhalla building, which is a listed historical monument, should be carried out swiftly. The city museum needs a long-term perspective. The kuenstlerhaus43 needs a viable venue very soon. KulturCampus and Tanzhaus are important projects, but their implementation requires realistic financing and sponsorship concepts.

AfD: The Walhalla has been the subject of debate for at least 10 years, and money has been poured into it without any significant progress being made. There is still no concept for its use. Progress must finally be made here.

A larger property for the Stadtmuseum (SAM) would be desirable in principle. With regard to a possible move, the need for municipal subsidies must be minimized.

The kuenstlerhaus43 is important for the city's art scene. But here, too, the question of the financial viability of new premises is central.

For financial reasons, we currently see no possibility of realizing the KulturCampus. In principle, any funding must first and foremost go to existing cultural institutions. All others are "nice to have."

A dance center would certainly be welcome. Otherwise, the same applies as for kuenstlerhaus43.

SPD: The cultural use of the Walhalla is an important project that we are supporting constructively. Close integration into the existing cultural offerings is crucial. The city museum on the market square should be permanently secured and relocated to the sports arena/Langgasse as a "third place." The KulturCampus offers great opportunities for the slaughterhouse area as well as for the Kreativfabrik and rehearsal rooms, but the financing must be further examined. A dance hall is desirable, but can only be realized in cooperation with the state of Hesse. The following applies to all projects: realism and financial responsibility are paramount.

GREENS: We stand by our responsibility for the historic Walhalla, but implementation can only succeed gradually and with subsidies or donations. Renovation and operation must not be at the expense of the cultural budget.

The city museum should not remain a basement child. The Sportcheck location is an option and offers opportunities to enrich the city center.

We are clearly committed to kuenstlerhaus43 and are confident that a location will be found in the course of the year. This may require compromises on all sides.

Creative industries and socio-cultural urban development, creative factory and context – the KulturCampus offers many of the things we want for the development of the city.

The idea of the dance house is convincing, but the location and financing by the state are still open. We see opportunities in connection with the theater renovation.

FDP: Walhalla: current costs of at least €70 million plus high operating costs with dubious benefits for culture. The project can really only be implemented with private funds. 

City museum: Should be moved out of the Marktkeller. We will examine suitable properties. We want to demolish the former sports arena and convert it into a city square with peripheral development. It is therefore not available.

Kuenstlerhaus43: Urgently needed and preferably in the city center, after the old premises were unfortunately gambled away by the SPD cultural department. Until then: timely extension of the leases with longer terms in the Palast Hotel for the necessary planning security.

KulturCampus & Tanzhaus: Not feasible without private financing.

DIE LINKE: "One should not try to foresee the future, but make it possible.

— Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900 - 1944)" 

The Left Party will campaign for the implementation of as many cultural projects as possible. This requires reliable municipal funding. In addition to the measures already mentioned, however, it will also depend on the state providing the municipalities with adequate resources. A wealth tax would bring Hesse approximately €8 billion. If Hesse gave 50% of this to the municipalities, that would be over €150 million for Wiesbaden. This would enable many projects to be realized. The projects mentioned all deserve to be supported. They are (Stadtmuseum, Künstlerhaus 43) or would be an enrichment for Wiesbaden.

Volt: We support the restoration of the Walhalla and its long-term development into a joint performance and administrative venue for the independent theaters in Wiesbaden. In doing so, we are structurally strengthening the independent cultural scene and creating reliable conditions for artistic work.

In addition, we are committed to developing a viable concept that will provide the city museum with a sustainable and secure long-term location. 

Furthermore, it is our goal that necessary large-scale projects – such as the renovation of the Hessian State Theater in Wiesbaden – do not come at the expense of the independent scene. Cultural funding must be balanced and take into account both established institutions and independent initiatives.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: Since the Walhalla is a listed building, renovation is unavoidable. The longer we wait, the more expensive it will be. 

It might also be feasible to integrate a dance center for Wiesbaden here.

We consider it very important to give Wiesbaden's city history an appropriate space in a city museum again, thereby bringing it back into the public eye. The former sports arena would be a good option for this. 

Securing a venue for the Künstlerhaus 43 is an important concern. Financable options must be sought here.

The KulturCampus offers the city the opportunity to set new impulses; here, a young and modern space for creativity and community is being created. Due to the diverse funding opportunities, we consider the campus to be entirely feasible.

THE PARTY: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Whether cultural investment projects, climate change, or the independent scene, BSW is in favor of more citizen participation (involvement of local councils, young people in schools, vocational schools, and universities). BSW is in favor of more direct democracy, evaluation, and quality management, more concrete figures instead of wishful thinking and ideology. 

FWG: 

• The Walhalla project renovation needs to be accelerated because this property is a flagship project in the city center.
• We are giving the future of the city museum the highest priority and, following the feasibility study, would like to see the move to the sports arena implemented very quickly.
• The Künstlerhaus 43 venue is important to us, which is why we were the only faction to call for concrete financial support during the budget deliberations.
• The cultural campus is a new beginning for the development of the area on Mainzer Straße; however, the initiators should present concepts that are geared toward a broad range of offerings.
• The Tanzhaus should be helped in its search for suitable premises.

PdF: From our perspective, that is difficult to answer at this time. The Walhalla property is scheduled to be renovated between 2028 and 2030. As with all projects of this kind, the costs have risen from the original €39 million to over €50 million. It remains to be seen how this will affect many other large-scale projects of a similar nature. It would make sense not to plan five or six large-scale projects at the same time, but to prioritize them first and then work through them one by one.

FREIE WÄHLER: The renovation of the Walhalla is a priority for us, combined with a viable utilization and financing concept. The city museum needs long-term location and financing security. A permanent venue for kuenstlerhaus43 should be examined in the near future, for example by using suitable existing properties. In the case of the KulturCampus and a possible dance center, we attach great importance to realistic cost calculations, viable operating concepts, and secure financing before construction begins.

CDU: Art and culture can enliven public spaces in many ways, for example through festivals, open-air formats, temporary stages, and collaborations with local actors. They enhance the quality of life, strengthen the city center, and promote encounters in the neighborhoods.

AfD: Culture in public spaces should be accessible, safe, and family-friendly—for example, by maintaining customs such as local festivals, markets, music events, or collaborations with associations. The goal is genuine quality of life rather than short-term event politics.

SPD: Art and culture can contribute significantly to the revitalization of public spaces. Open-air events, temporary stages, and temporary cultural uses create new meeting places. Especially in the city center, culture can contribute to attractiveness and quality of life. Neighborhood formats also strengthen local identification. Cooperation with local initiatives and associations is crucial in this regard. Culture in public spaces lowers barriers to access. It makes diversity visible and tangible. A good example of this is the Infobox Kultur, which is often used by cultural creators. In addition, twin towns can be more closely integrated into festivals and markets. In this way, we combine urban development and cultural participation.

GREENS: We want to work together with the cultural, commercial, and gastronomic sectors to develop Wiesbaden's city center and urban spaces into a lively living environment with a high quality of life. This requires places for people to meet and interact. The new city museum and the KulturCampus can become major attractions – as can art in public spaces and events in squares. By specifically promoting restaurants, clubs, and cultural offerings in squares and when planning new construction areas, we can bring more life to the city even after closing time. A vibrant nighttime economy increases both attractiveness and perceived safety. 

FDP: As with all other events, festivals, etc., the same applies here: simple approval procedures and the absence of excessive requirements help to encourage cultural institutions to display their art in public spaces, thereby enhancing the value of those spaces.

DIE LINKE: Art and culture enliven public spaces by attracting people, increasing the quality of life, and facilitating social encounters.

Art in public spaces transforms "dead" or purely functional areas into places that attract attention, arouse curiosity, and create a pleasant atmosphere. Art installations and cultural programs become an occasion to stop, engage in conversation, and use the space together.

Striking works of art or recurring cultural series shape the image of a diverse city and strengthen residents' identification with "their" space.

In addition, art in public spaces can make culture accessible, especially for people who do not use traditional cultural institutions.

Volt: Art and culture can sustainably revitalize public spaces by creating places of encounter, exchange, and identification.

We want to revitalize unused spaces such as the former "Sportarena" with cultural and gastronomic offerings. Such mixed use strengthens both the city center as a place to spend time and the local cultural scene.

In addition, Volt is committed to establishing an annual Europe Day celebration on May 9. As a recurring city festival, it could promote cultural exchange with partner cities and raise the profile of Wiesbaden as a city with European connections.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: Art and culture in public spaces contribute to their revitalization by making public spaces more accessible. They promote community and invite people to linger and interact. Street art, for example, can enhance the quality of life and transform dreary places into attractive destinations.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: The BSW combines the promotion of cultural tourism with historical fairness. The cultural heritage, from Roman times to the era of the Duchy of Nassau, attracts many tourists to Wiesbaden and should continue to be promoted more strongly in the future as a tourist magnet and as a Wiesbaden specialty of cultural offerings. 

The Marktkirche, which was built as the "Wiesbaden Cathedral/Cathedral of Nassau" and financed by the citizens of Wiesbaden, should finally be officially given this name. In addition, it should be made available to the rapidly growing Orthodox communities in Wiesbaden as an ecumenical Wiesbaden Cathedral. On this occasion, it would be desirable to win over the Luxembourg-Nassau dynasty for the Wiesbaden cultural scene and to expand town twinning and exchange programs with Luxembourg.

FWG: In many cases, public spaces can be used for cultural purposes. Examples already exist at Sonnenberg Castle, in Kleine Frankfurter Straße during the literature festival, at Kranzplatz and Warmer Damm, and even on Neroberg. It is indeed possible to imagine further cultural events in public spaces in the city center and certainly in the suburbs. However, in these cases, the interests of the immediate neighborhood that are worthy of protection must also be taken into account. Necessary discussions between those affected are therefore always a prerequisite.

PdF: Overall, many temporary events are already taking place on public streets and squares. Art in public spaces and open-air artistic events should receive support quickly and without bureaucracy.

FREIE WÄHLER: Open-air formats, small stage formats, temporary art installations, and cultural markets can enhance the quality of life in the city center and in the neighborhoods. Culture creates foot traffic and social interaction. This is particularly important for revitalizing the city center.

CDU: Sustainability in culture means energy-efficient buildings, climate-friendly event concepts, and advising institutions on sustainable production. We want to combine ecological responsibility with cultural performance. Financing is also an important dimension of sustainability.

AfD: For us, sustainability means above all economic rationality: durable infrastructure, efficient use of existing buildings, and fewer costly symbolic projects. Culture must not be overburdened with additional requirements.

However, we should see climate change as an opportunity. After all, as it gets warmer, more outdoor events can be offered. A little Spanish flair would certainly do the city good.

SPD: Sustainability in culture encompasses ecological and social aspects. Energy-efficient renovations of cultural buildings are just as important as sustainable event standards. Heat waves and extreme weather events, for example, have an impact on open-air formats or the storage of cultural works. At the same time, fair working conditions must be ensured. Sustainability also means long-term planning security. Culture can be a model for responsible action. We want to take greater account of ecological criteria without restricting cultural diversity. Climate protection and culture are not contradictory. They belong together.

GREENS: Social and ecological transformation remains a core concern of our cultural policy. We want to provide concrete support to cultural institutions in this regard—for example, through advisory services, workshops, and networking formats on the topic of sustainability. 

We want to continue to promote regional and local programs and platforms such as Ökoprofit and TourCert and make them even better known. At the same time, cultural institutions need long-term prospects so that they do not have to fight for their existence, but can actively shape ecological and social sustainability. 

FDP: Cultural buildings owned by municipalities should be gradually renovated to improve their energy efficiency. RMV KombiTickets must be made more accessible to other institutions. 

Cultural workers should be able to concentrate on their core business: making art. We reject additional climate requirements, reporting obligations, or funding conditions that place excessive organizational demands on small institutions. 

DIE LINKE: We link climate justice and cultural participation. For us, climate protection is a social issue: measures must take into account people with low incomes in particular. 

In urban development, we focus on "urban nature instead of concrete jungles" – that means unsealed surfaces, shade, greenery, and water.

For municipally funded events, we demand minimum ecological standards (public transport connections, waste avoidance, climate-friendly catering) without overburdening small associations – through advice rather than just requirements. We want cultural offerings to be easily accessible, especially by bus, train, bicycle, and on foot, and are therefore also committed to strong, affordable public transport.

Volt: We are committed to comprehensive climate protection at the municipal level. Our goal is to supply Wiesbaden with climate-neutral energy by 2035.

The cultural sector is also an important part of this transformation. We want to support cultural institutions in making their buildings and operations more energy-efficient. This includes, in particular, the reactivation and further development of municipal programs for energy-efficient renovation.

For us, sustainable culture means combining ecological responsibility with cultural diversity. We design funding programs in such a way that they specifically strengthen resource-saving event formats, sustainable procurement, and climate-friendly mobility.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: Sustainable culture should involve the integration of ecological, social, and economic principles into cultural practices and institutions. This can include the sustainable use of buildings in the cultural sector, e.g., the reduction of CO2 emissions and the use of renewable energies, or the promotion of environmentally friendly productions. We want cultural projects to respect nature and the environment as well.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Whether cultural investment projects, climate change, or the independent scene, BSW is in favor of more citizen participation (involvement of local councils, young people in schools, vocational schools, and universities). BSW is in favor of more direct democracy, evaluation, and quality management, more concrete figures instead of wishful thinking and ideology. 

FWG: Long-term vacancies should be avoided through temporary cultural uses. Cultural creators should cooperate more with each other and always check whether they can make rooms available to each other for holding their events (multipurpose use).

When constructing or maintaining buildings for cultural use, climate protection requirements should be met, provided that this does not involve excessive bureaucratic obstacles or excessive costs.

PdF: Germany has committed itself to complying with the Paris climate targets. Cultural policy will also have to be aligned with this. Cultural events must therefore always aim to be as climate-neutral or climate-friendly as possible. In specific cases, experts are needed to advise and support the organizers.

FREIE WÄHLER: We support energy-efficient renovations, sustainable event logistics, and ecological criteria in funding programs. Cultural buildings must be gradually upgraded to be more energy efficient. Funding should include incentives for resource-saving production methods.

CDU: Fair support conditions must apply regardless of legal form. Transparent funding guidelines and equal treatment are crucial. The independent scene is an equal partner and is not obliged to show particular gratitude.

AfD: In principle, we believe that the cultural scene should be self-sustaining through ticket prices, sales, or sponsors. After all, this works in other countries. However, we are aware that operators in this country have problems simply because of rents. Targeted funding is therefore essential in certain cases.

We would like to expressly highlight the state theater. It is the beacon of culture par excellence. However, it is not possible to run the theater without enormous funding from the city and state. We believe that the state has a duty to significantly increase its share of funding in the future. 

SPD: Fair conditions must apply to all cultural institutions. Adult education centers and music and art schools perform indispensable educational work and should continue to receive reliable funding; at the same time, we are advocating for greater state participation. The independent scene is a central part of our cultural landscape, not a supplicant. We have fought for its support in the budget and will continue to do so. Funding decisions must be transparent and comprehensible – that is what the jury's recommendation stands for. The goal remains fair, partnership-based cultural funding.

GREENS: We want to end the structural disadvantage of the independent scene. Good cultural work needs reliable funding – rising costs, such as minimum wage increases, must also be taken into account in municipal funding. 

We expressly do not see any obligation to be grateful to the independent scene. On the contrary: we are grateful for their commitment and their work. In many ways, the independent scene is an important location factor for Wiesbaden – it creates lively spaces, attracts skilled workers, students, and tourists, and strengthens democratic urban society. 

FDP: See above: In the last budget discussions, we strongly demanded that savings be made first in lavishly funded municipal cultural institutions before independent cultural institutions have to accept losses. 

DIE LINKE: We continue to rely on the independent cultural jury and want to make it possible to implement its proposals.
We do not share the opinion expressed. 

Volt: Volt Wiesbaden is committed to fair and transparent funding conditions for all cultural institutions, regardless of their legal form. Decision-making processes, funding criteria, and application procedures should be uniform, transparent, and participatory. We strive for equal treatment, planning security, and long-term cooperation so that both established institutions and new initiatives receive reliable support and cultural diversity in Wiesbaden is preserved.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: Art and culture are part of public life, and their promotion should be part of the public services provided by the state or, in this case, the city. In this respect, gratitude is a nice gesture but not essential for funding. 

However, all cultural institutions, including the independent scene, should also be able to cover at least part of their costs themselves in the long term. Culture will be just as unable to cover its costs in the future as, for example, public transport, so funding will always be essential. 

THE PARTY: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: Whether cultural investment projects, climate change, or the independent scene, BSW is in favor of more citizen participation (involvement of local councils, young people in schools, vocational schools, and universities). BSW is in favor of more direct democracy, evaluation, and quality management, more concrete figures instead of wishful thinking and ideology. 

FWG: There should be no automatic continuation of support for individual cultural institutions in the budget. Rather, applicants for municipal subsidies should increasingly demonstrate the objective necessity of their expenditures and provide convincing justifications. One possible instrument in the municipal budget is ZBB (zero-based budgeting), which was not successful in 2025 and was therefore not implemented, but is planned for the budget after next. In addition, more specific performance contracts should be concluded with applicants. This would lead to a fairer distribution of budget funds.

Against this background, a submissive thank you is neither necessary nor desired. Discussions with the city should not be conducted at this level. That is why we also reject the sense of entitlement in the sense of full provision.

PdF: Ultimately, every cultural institution is a special case and, as such, must always be viewed in a balanced and differentiated manner. Therefore, the "scattergun approach" should not be used; instead, clear rules should apply. In this vague case, we cannot assess whether anyone is obliged to show "more gratitude."

FREIE WÄHLER: All cultural institutions must be treated equally, regardless of their legal form. The independent scene is an essential driver of innovation. We reject the view that it is obliged to show special gratitude or has a right to full funding. At the same time, we expect transparent use of funds and clear target agreements.

CDU: We need more offerings for teenagers and young people, stronger promotion of contemporary and digital formats, and additional spaces for young artists. In addition, the visibility of local cultural creators in public spaces should be further strengthened.

AfD: Even though Wiesbaden already offers a wide range of cultural activities, the following would still be desirable: more support for local club culture, customs, classical music, activities for children and families, and events with a regional connection. 

But in principle, we believe it is more important to maintain and finance existing offerings. This should be the priority in the budget. The inclusion of new projects in the funding program must take a back seat.

SPD: Cultural offerings for young people deserve special attention. Institutions such as the Kreativfabrik Wiesbaden do indispensable work in this area. That is why we recently addressed the renovation backlog at the Kreativfabrik in committee in order to find solutions. Youth culture promotes creativity, personal responsibility, and social skills. 

We want to secure and further develop their work in the long term. Intercultural formats in the city's neighborhoods should also be strengthened. City partnerships offer additional opportunities for cultural exchange. New formats and innovative projects should be specifically supported. It is important that culture remains accessible to all age groups. Wiesbaden should remain a city where cultural diversity is a matter of course.

GREENS: Wiesbaden needs more space for creative experimentation and more openness to the night-time economy. We want to revitalize the city center and its squares and systematically integrate culture into urban development and other planning contexts. 

Our goal is to strengthen the links between culture, the creative industries, and commerce. Creativity arises where people find vision and space. We want to create these spaces—so that Wiesbaden becomes even more vibrant, open, and culturally diverse.

FDP: We believe that Wiesbaden already has a vibrant cultural scene.

DIE LINKE: Politics can only answer this question to a very limited extent. It is therefore crucial that culture itself is loud and articulates its needs. With the Cultural Advisory Council, there is already a strong player representing the interests of culture. Die Linke would like to continue working trustfully with all cultural creators in the future. 

Volt: Volt is committed to making access to cultural institutions in Wiesbaden easier and more inclusive. One example is the Wiesbaden Card, which is designed to facilitate uncomplicated visits to educational and cultural institutions – without discrimination or barriers.

In addition, Volt is creating new spaces for the independent cultural scene by renovating the Walhalla. These are to be used specifically for projects that culturally enliven public spaces, involve young people, and enable experimental formats.

We want to make more active use of opportunities such as the painting "Ophelia" in the Museum Wiesbaden and open up the city's broad and diverse cultural offerings to different population groups.

PRO AUTO: no response received

BLW: A sensible, lively city museum that shows that history does not have to be boring, but on the contrary, that knowledge of history is interesting and important in order to be able to use the experiences and lessons of the past for the present and the future.

DIE PARTEI: no response received

The Justice Party: no response received

BSW: The BSW combines the promotion of cultural tourism with historical fairness. The cultural heritage, from Roman times to the era of the Duchy of Nassau, attracts many tourists to Wiesbaden and should continue to be promoted more strongly in the future as a tourist magnet and as a Wiesbaden specialty of cultural offerings. 

The Marktkirche, which was built as the "Wiesbaden Cathedral/Cathedral of Nassau" and financed by the citizens of Wiesbaden, should finally be officially given this name. In addition, it should be made available to the rapidly growing Orthodox communities in Wiesbaden as an ecumenical Wiesbaden Cathedral. On this occasion, it would be desirable to win over the Luxembourg-Nassau dynasty for the Wiesbaden cultural scene and to expand town twinning and exchange programs with Luxembourg.

FWG: The cultural offerings for children and, in any case, for young people could be expanded and should extend across the entire city, including the suburbs.

It would also be desirable to create the conditions for a multiplex cinema with first-class technology and maximum 3D. This could be an attractive draw for the surrounding area.

PdF: Overall, we consider the city of Wiesbaden to be well positioned in the cultural sector. However, there is always room for improvement. Cultural offerings should always be a focus, and the city center in particular should be "revitalized," made more accessible, and made more attractive through cultural offerings. We are committed to this.

FREIE WÄHLER: We see potential in the expansion of youth cultural offerings, intercultural formats, digital art and media culture, as well as low-threshold offerings in the local districts. Cultural policy should be more neighborhood-oriented and systematically develop the cultural infrastructure in all districts.