SPD initiates new disciplinary proceedings against Schröder over visit to Putin

Party branches demand sanctions against ex-chancellor

Two branches of the German Social Democratic Party (SPD) have submitted proposals to initiate disciplinary proceedings against former federal chancellor Gerhard Schröder. The initiative emerged after the politician attended the birthday celebration of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Details of document verification

Christoph Matterne, executive director of the SPD district branch in Hannover, confirmed receiving two such proposals. According to him, the formal validity of these documents is currently being verified. Matterne declined to disclose the names of the specific branches that initiated this move, citing internal party arbitration rules.

History of previous conflicts

This is not the first time Schröder has faced pressure from his own party. Previously, his close ties with Russia also sparked a wave of criticism. Several years ago, 17 SPD branches initiated a sanctions procedure. In the summer of 2022, the district branch in Hannover ruled in the first instance that Schröder had not violated party rules. Seven branches appealed this decision, but their appeals were dismissed without result.

Arbitration committee decisions

In 2023, the SPD district arbitration committee in Hannover rejected all complaints regarding punishment. In the final instance, the party's federal arbitration committee also deemed the appeals inadmissible. Despite this, following his latest visit to Putin, Schröder again faces a disciplinary review, which could result in a reprimand or even expulsion from the SPD.