Berlin, February 19, 2026 – For the upcoming elections to the Berlin House of Representatives and the district parliaments on September 20, 2026, the city is set to significantly increase the number of polling stations and voting booths. This initiative aims to enhance the voting experience and prevent long queues, according to State Election Director Stephan Bröchler.
Expanded Infrastructure for 2026 Elections
The state election commission plans to establish approximately 2,500 polling stations, marking a 10% increase compared to the 2023 repeat election. In addition to these, postal voting stations will also be available, though their exact number is yet to be determined. Each polling station will be equipped with four to six voting booths to accommodate voters efficiently.
A substantial increase in personnel is also anticipated, with up to 40,000 election workers expected to be on duty. This represents an increase of around 5,000 workers compared to the previous election, underscoring the commitment to ensuring a well-organized and timely voting process.
Potential for Multiple Referendums
Bröchler highlighted the importance of having a large number of ballot boxes, booths, and helpers, especially given the possibility of voters casting ballots for up to two referendums in addition to the House of Representatives and district parliament elections. Such a scenario would inevitably prolong the voting process, making the expanded resources crucial for maintaining efficiency. The final decision on whether these referendums will take place is still pending.
Increased Electorate and New Voting Procedures
The number of eligible voters for the House of Representatives election is estimated to be around 2.5 million, a slight increase from the 2.43 million recorded in 2023. A notable change for the 2026 elections is the inclusion of 16- and 17-year-olds, who will be able to cast their votes for the first time.
Another significant procedural alteration is that both first and second votes can now be cast on a single ballot. This differs from previous elections in Berlin, where two separate ballots were required for these votes, streamlining the process for voters.
These comprehensive preparations reflect Berlin’s commitment to facilitating a smooth, accessible, and efficient electoral process for all eligible citizens in the upcoming 2026 elections.
