Paper Shortage Blamed For Potential Election Delay Despite Paper Industry Pushing Back On Claim

Federal Election Director Ruth Brand has stirred debate by claiming that a paper shortage could disrupt plans for early elections in Germany. In a letter to Chancellor Olaf Scholz, she described difficulties in sourcing enough paper for ballots as a “great challenge.”

Industry experts have pushed back, calling the claims unfounded. Alexander von Reibnitz, head of Germany’s paper industry association, assured the public that supplies are sufficient. “We have paper. The German paper industry is very efficient,” he said, adding that timely orders would resolve any concerns.

Germany is the EU’s top paper producer, manufacturing far more than the amount required for a national election. In 2022, the administration used approximately 3,800 tons of paper, comparable to what would be needed for ballots.

The timing of Brand’s warning has raised eyebrows. Critics suggest the shortage narrative aligns with Scholz’s preference to delay elections until January, despite mounting pressure for a vote of confidence before Christmas.

Neighboring Poland has offered assistance, with MEP Dariusz Jonski stating that Polish companies could supply paper and printing services. “If Germany needs printers and paper, we will definitely sell both to our neighbors,” he said.

As public scrutiny grows, Scholz has indicated he is open to moving up the confidence vote. His willingness to abide by agreements between parliamentary leaders suggests that election planning may soon progress despite the controversy.

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