Street named after Helmut Kohl in Berlin remains unoccupied

Berlin to Consider Naming Street After Helmut Kohl in Commemoration of German Unity

In a recent announcement, Berlin's Governing Mayor, Kai Wegner (CDU), has proposed plans to honour the late Chancellor Helmut Kohl this year, marking the 35th anniversary of German Unity. The proposal includes renaming a street or square in Berlin-Mitte, close to the Bundestag and Bundeskanzleramt, after Kohl.

Kohl, internationally known as the "Chancellor of Unity", oversaw German reunification during his tenure from 1982 to 1998. His potential street or square in Berlin would join existing names that honour Willy Brandt (former SPD Chancellor) and Konrad Adenauer (first Chancellor of the Federal Republic, CDU).

However, the exact location and timing for the street naming are still undecided, with ongoing discussions. The District Office Mitte has stated that the implementation by October 3, 2025, the 35th anniversary of German reunification, is unrealistic.

The Berlin CDU and SPD have agreed in their coalition agreement to name a street or square after Helmut Kohl. Despite the demand for such a move having been ongoing for years, there is no corresponding initiative before the District Assembly regarding the naming of a street or square for Kohl.

It's important to note that Kohl was a CDU politician and an honorary citizen of Berlin, but his legacy is not without controversy. He was embroiled in the CDU donation scandal, a matter that has not been overlooked.

The District Office has not been involved with the topic of naming or renaming a street or square for Kohl. The renaming can only become effective three months later, provided there is no objection.

Despite the complexities, the naming of a street or square after Helmut Kohl is intended to commemorate his role in the German Unity. The district of Mitte, which houses the Bundestag and the Federal Chancellery, is considered a suitable location for a street or square named after Kohl.

Stay tuned for more updates as discussions about the location and timing of the street naming continue.