The
The Sozialverband VdK Hessen-Thüringen e.V. is the largest social association in the federal states of Hessen and Thüringen, represented by the umbrella organization Sozialverband VdK Deutschland e.V. With a history of more than 75 years, the association tirelessly advocates for solidarity and cohesion in society.
The VdK Hessen-Thüringen represents the interests of older, disabled, chronically ill, and care-dependent people and their relatives. As an expert in social law, the association fights for social justice, against social exclusion, poverty, and unequal opportunities. The association is politically and confessionally neutral and finances itself through membership fees to remain financially independent from external interests[3].
The VdK Hessen-Thüringen offers comprehensive social legal advice and representation for its members. With a close network of around 1200 local associations, 57 district offices, and ten regional offices, qualified social counselors and authorized lawyers are available on-site. They assist members in clarifying their rights and claims, handle correspondence with authorities, and represent them in objection proceedings as well as before social courts[3].
In addition to social legal counseling, the VdK Hessen-Thüringen organizes numerous informational events, social afternoons, and joint leisure activities. These activities promote interpersonal exchange and local association life, which is shaped by volunteer engagement[3].
The VdK Hessen-Thüringen actively advocates for various socio-political goals. These include the demand for a pension insurance for all, including the self-employed, civil servants, and politicians, as well as the introduction of a wage replacement benefit for caring relatives. Additionally, the association calls for the introduction of a wealth tax and a wealth levy to combat the growing inequality in society and to sustainably finance public services, climate protection, and support for low-income countries[3].
With over 293,000 members in Hessen and Thüringen and a total of 2.2 million members nationwide, the Sozialverband VdK is a significant voice for social justice in Germany. The association actively shapes German social policy and influences legislative processes through discussions with politicians, media-effective actions and campaigns, as well as extensive press and public relations work[2][3].
