Die Linke Leader Ines Schwerdtner Calls for Expropriation of Major Housing Companies in Berlin

Ines Schwerdtner, federal co-chair of Die Linke, called for the expropriation of major real estate corporations in Berlin during a party congress speech, framing the policy as a necessary step to curb soaring rents and secure 220,000 apartments for municipal control. The proposal comes in the wake of the Berlin branch of Die Linke winning Sunday’s election to the Abgeordnetenhaus and pursuing exploratory talks for government formation.

The Case for Expropriation in Berlin

Addressing party members, Schwerdtner defended the controversial policy of transferring housing stock from large private companies to public ownership against compensation. Critics frequently argue that expropriation fails to build a single new apartment and merely changes ownership. According to Schwerdtner, that exact shift in ownership is the central point.

Die Linke Leader Ines Schwerdtner Calls for Expropriation of Major Housing Companies in Berlin

Decades of narrative claiming there is no alternative must be challenged, Schwerdtner argued, pointing to Berlin as a potential proof that viable alternatives exist. The politician acknowledged that the resulting political pressure is intense, asserting that opponents attack the party not for past actions or identity, but for its stated intentions.

Targeting 220,000 Municipal Apartments

The Berlin branch of Die Linke aims to target large housing conglomerates to bring approximately 220,000 apartments into public hands. Party leadership maintains that this strategy is designed to combat rising rental costs across the capital. Schwerdtner stated that the party is deliberately confronting powerful financial interests and major real estate firms, urging members to view political headwinds as momentum rather than an obstacle.

Addressing the local party organization directly, Schwerdtner emphasized the weight of their current political standing following Sunday’s election victory in the Abgeordnetenhaus. Die Linke is now preparing to enter exploratory talks with potential coalition partners to form a government, raising the stakes for party discipline and execution.

Next Steps in Government Formation

Following their victory in Sunday’s election to the Abgeordnetenhaus, Berlin’s Linke leadership faces immediate strategic decisions regarding coalition building and policy negotiation. Schwerdtner cautioned delegates against operational errors, emphasizing that the party must demonstrate competence as it enters the phase of government formation discussions.