Peter Hintze, German politician (d. 2016)

Peter Hintze, born on April 25, 1950, and passing away on November 26, 2016, was a distinguished German politician who left an indelible mark on the political landscape, primarily as a steadfast member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU). His career spanned decades, characterized by significant contributions at both national and international levels, reflecting a deep commitment to public service and democratic values.

A Longstanding Career in the German Bundestag

Hintze's parliamentary journey began in 1990, when he was first elected to the German Bundestag, the federal parliament of Germany. He served continuously as a representative until his death in 2016, a remarkable tenure of 26 years. This lengthy period in the Bundestag allowed him to witness and participate in pivotal moments of German history, including the post-reunification era and Germany's evolving role in Europe and the world. His dedication to his constituents and the legislative process was a hallmark of his service.

Towards the later stage of his career, from 2013 until his passing in 2016, Peter Hintze was entrusted with the significant responsibility of serving as one of the six Vice Presidents of the Bundestag. This esteemed position is part of the Presidium, the governing body of the parliament, where he played a crucial role in supporting the Bundestag President in managing parliamentary proceedings, maintaining order, and representing the institution's dignity. It underscored the high regard in which he was held by his peers across the political spectrum.

Key Leadership Roles within the Christian Democratic Union

Beyond his direct parliamentary duties, Peter Hintze was a central figure within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), one of Germany's two major center-right political parties. His influence extended through several crucial party leadership positions:

• Federal Chairman of the Evangelical Working Group of the CDU/CSU (1990-1992): Early in his Bundestag career, Hintze took on the leadership of the Evangelical Working Group. This internal association within the CDU and its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU), serves as a crucial platform to represent and articulate the interests and perspectives of Protestant Christians within the predominantly Christian democratic political bloc. His leadership here highlighted the confessional roots of the parties and their commitment to broad societal representation.
• General Secretary of the CDU (1992-1998): Perhaps one of his most impactful roles, Hintze served as the General Secretary of the CDU for six years. This is a highly influential operational position within a German political party, responsible for managing the party's day-to-day affairs, orchestrating election campaigns, developing political strategy, and ensuring internal cohesion. His tenure as General Secretary coincided with a dynamic period for Germany and the CDU, as the country navigated the challenges and opportunities presented by reunification, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled political strategist and organizer.

International Engagement

Hintze's political acumen and commitment extended beyond Germany's borders. He also held the prestigious position of Vice President of the Centrist Democrat International (CDI). The CDI is a global alliance of Christian democratic, centrist, and center-right political parties from around the world. His involvement at this level underscored his engagement with broader international political discourse and his role in fostering cooperation among like-minded democratic parties globally, advocating for shared values and principles on the international stage.

FAQs About Peter Hintze

Who was Peter Hintze?

Peter Hintze was a prominent German politician from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) who served as a member of the German Bundestag for 26 years, from 1990 until his death in 2016. He held several significant leadership roles, including Vice President of the Bundestag and General Secretary of the CDU.

What were his main contributions to German politics?

His main contributions included his long service in the Bundestag, his leadership as General Secretary of the CDU during a critical post-reunification period, and his role as Vice President of the Bundestag, where he helped oversee parliamentary proceedings. He was known for his strategic insights and commitment to the CDU's principles.

What is the Christian Democratic Union (CDU)?

The Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is one of Germany's two major center-right political parties, typically forming a parliamentary group with its Bavarian sister party, the Christian Social Union (CSU). It emphasizes conservative, liberal, and Christian-democratic principles.

What is the role of the Vice President of the Bundestag?

The Vice Presidents of the Bundestag are members of the Presidium, the governing body of the German parliament. They assist the President of the Bundestag in presiding over plenary sessions, maintaining order, and representing the Bundestag both domestically and internationally. It is a highly respected leadership position.

What is the significance of the General Secretary role in a German political party like the CDU?

The General Secretary is a key executive position responsible for the day-to-day management of the party's affairs, including organizing campaigns, coordinating policy development, internal communication, and party strategy. It is often a highly visible and influential role, crucial for the party's operational effectiveness and public image.

What is the Centrist Democrat International (CDI)?

The Centrist Democrat International (CDI) is a global political organization that brings together Christian democratic, centrist, and center-right political parties from various countries. It aims to promote democracy, human rights, and shared values through international cooperation and dialogue among its member parties.