Parliament and government
Schwerin Castle, presumably the most beautiful seat of parliament in Germany
The Landtag, the state parliament, is the freely elected representative of the people. Its composition is decided in free general, equal and secret elections, most recently on 26 September 2021. A term lasts five years. The Landtag decides state laws and the national budget. It elects the Minister-President and oversees the state government and its administration. The seat of the parliament is Schwerin Castle, presumably the most beautiful seat of parliament in Germany.
Schwerin Castle is also the centerpiece of the Residence Ensemble Schwerin which has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site since July 2024.
Minister-President Manuela Schwesig was sworn in in the State Parliament (Landtag) on 4 July 2017
© Staatskanzlei MV
Minister-President Manuela Schwesig was sworn in in the State Parliament (Landtag) on 4 July 2017
© Staatskanzlei MV
The Minister President of the state is Manuela Schwesig. She was elected as head of government by the Landtag on 4 July 2017 and again on 15 November 2021. Manuela Schwesig heads the state’s coalition government, which consists of the parties SPD and the Left Party.
In accordance with the state constitution, the Minister-President determines the guidelines of government policy and is responsible for monitoring compliance with these guidelines. Furthermore, the eight ministers conduct the affairs of their respective departments independently in keeping with the guidelines.
Once a week, the Minister-President holds a cabinet meeting with the ministers at the State Chancellery. At these meetings, the Cabinet discusses fundamental political issues and decides on legislative proposals to be brought before the parliament (Landtag).