Diakonie Deutschland

Diakonie Deutschland
Name	Diakonie Deutschland
Formation	1957
Type	Social welfare organization
Headquarters	Berlin, Germany
Region served	Germany
Leader title	President
Leader name	Ulrich Lilie
Main organ	Bundesverband

Diakonie Deutschland. It is the umbrella organization for Protestant social welfare work in Germany, functioning as one of the country's six major welfare associations alongside entities like the Caritasverband. The federation represents over 28,000 independent diaconal services and facilities, ranging from hospitals and care homes to counseling centers and kindergartens. Rooted in the Christian tradition of service, it advocates for social justice and provides aid to millions of people annually, regardless of their background or beliefs.

History

The origins of organized diaconal work trace back to 19th-century revivalist movements, notably the efforts of Johann Hinrich Wichern and his establishment of the Rauhe Haus in Hamburg. The modern federation was formally constituted in 1957 in West Germany as the "Innere Mission und Hilfswerk der Evangelischen Kirche in Deutschland," merging the historic Innere Mission with the post-war relief agency Evangelisches Hilfswerk. Following German reunification, it integrated the diaconal structures from the former East Germany, significantly expanding its reach. Key historical milestones include its advocacy during the construction of the Berlin Wall and its role in providing humanitarian aid during events like the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 and subsequent refugee crises.

Organization and structure

Diakonie Deutschland operates as a registered association under German law, with its federal office located in Berlin and a liaison office in Brussels for European Union affairs. The presidency, held by figures such as Ulrich Lilie, provides spiritual and organizational leadership. Its structure is federative, comprising regional diaconal associations of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), specialized nationwide organizations like Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe, and free diaconal communities. Key governing bodies include a members' assembly and a board of directors, which coordinate with entities like the German Protestant Church Congress and the World Council of Churches.

Activities and services

The organization's service portfolio is vast, encompassing healthcare through numerous hospitals and rehabilitation clinics, elderly care in residential facilities, and support for people with disabilities via inclusive workshops and housing. It runs extensive child and youth services, including kindergartens and family counseling centers, and provides assistance for the homeless and addicted through facilities like the Berlin City Mission. Its international arm, Brot für die Welt, focuses on development projects, while Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe responds to global emergencies such as the Syrian civil war and the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Social and political advocacy

Acting as a prominent voice in socio-political debates, Diakonie Deutschland lobbies for a strong social safety net, equitable access to healthcare, and the rights of vulnerable groups. It engages in continuous dialogue with the Federal Government of Germany, the Bundestag, and ministries like the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth. Key advocacy areas include reforming long-term care insurance, promoting a living wage, protecting refugees under the Geneva Convention, and criticizing policies like the Asylum Seekers' Benefits Act. It often publishes position papers and collaborates with networks such as the European Anti-Poverty Network.

Finances and funding

The financial foundation of the diaconal enterprises is highly diversified. A significant portion comes from public funding through social insurance schemes like statutory health insurance and pension insurance, as well as payments from states (Länder) and municipalities for statutory services. Additional revenue streams include donations from the public, grants from organizations like the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, and contributions from member churches of the Evangelical Church in Germany. The financial oversight is stringent, adhering to principles of corporate governance and transparency.

Member organizations

The federation's strength lies in its diverse membership, which includes the diaconal works of all 20 Landeskirchen (regional churches) of the Evangelical Church in Germany, such as those from Bavaria and Saxony. Major specialized members comprise the von Bodelschwinghsche Stiftungen Bethel, the Evangelische Stiftung Alsterdorf, and the Bahn-Sozialwerk. Other significant partners are the Salvation Army in Germany, the Michaelsbund, and numerous independent diaconal sisterhoods and brotherhoods that trace their history to figures like Friedrich von Bodelschwingh the Elder.

Category:Protestantism in Germany Category:Social welfare organizations based in Germany Category:Organizations established in 1957