Matthias Platzeck German politician Country: Germany

1. Biography of Matthias Platzeck
2. Political Career
3. Early Life and Education
4. Political Achievements
5. Personal Life

Biography of Matthias Platzeck

Matthias Platzeck is a German politician who began his political career as the Minister for Environmental Protection in Brandenburg. He joined the SPD (Social Democratic Party) in 1995, but gained fame in 1997 during the Oder flood, where his skilled actions led to him being called the "count of dams and dykes".

Political Career

At the congress of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) in Karlsruhe, Platzeck was elected as the party chairman, succeeding Franz Müntefering, who announced his resignation. He received the support of 512 delegates, with only two against and one abstention. At 51 years old, Platzeck took over as the premier of the federal state of Brandenburg.

Early Life and Education

Matthias Platzeck is the son of a doctor from Potsdam. He served in the National People's Army of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) before enrolling in the Technical Institute in Ilmenau, where he obtained a specialist diploma in biomedical cybernetics.

Political Achievements

Platzeck began his political career as a member of the Alliance '90/The Greens party, serving as the Minister for Environmental Protection in Brandenburg. In 2000, he became the leader of the Brandenburg branch of the SPD and the mayor of the state. In June 2002, he succeeded Manfred Stolpe as the premier of Brandenburg. His predecessor referred to him as the "most significant voice of East Germany."

Personal Life

Matthias Platzeck is the father of three children and is divorced. His partner is Janet Jesorka.