Deutscher Städte- und Gemeindebund

The Deutscher Städte- und Gemeindebund (DStGB) represents the interests of German cities and municipalities at the state, federal, and EU levels. As the umbrella organization of the municipal state associations in Germany, which include district-affiliated cities and municipalities, the DStGB gives municipalities a strong and independent voice. The organization works independently of political parties and without government subsidies, with the composition of its bodies oriented towards the votes of the electorate in local elections[1][3][4].

• Municipal Advocacy: The DStGB maintains continuous contacts with political decision-makers and integrates municipal-relevant topics and positions into political decision-making processes.
• Municipal Information Network: Through media work and events, the DStGB raises awareness and mobilizes politics and the public for municipal political interests.
• Municipal Coordination Office: The DStGB promotes the exchange of experiences and information among its 17 member associations, which represent a total of 11,000 large, medium, and small municipalities.
• Municipal Representation Body: The DStGB represents municipal interests in central organizations that serve or promote these interests[1][3][4].

The DStGB is engaged in various areas to develop sustainable and future-oriented solutions for municipalities:

• Innovators Club: Founded in 2004, the Innovators Club deals with strategic and relevant future topics such as digitalization, education, climate protection, energy policy, and urban development. Here, mayors, district administrators, and leaders from politics, business, and science work together in an interdisciplinary manner[4].
• Multi-Generational Houses: The DStGB supports multi-generational houses that serve as contact points and meeting places for all generations. These houses connect local actors and offer intergenerational programs to promote cohesion between generations and enable social participation for all age groups[5].