Federführung

Federführung is a term used in German administrative language to denote the lead responsibility for a task or project that involves several actors. The “federführende Stelle” or “Federführung” coordinates the overall effort, ensures coherence among participating entities, and often bears primary accountability for decisions and reporting.

In practice, Federführung entails organizing and guiding collaboration, setting deadlines and milestones, consolidating input from involved parties, and representing the task in communications with higher authorities, the public, or external funders. The lead actor does not necessarily perform every component but acts as the central coordinating authority.

The term is common in various administrative and political contexts. In government and public administration, it designates the entity responsible for steering joint measures or policy initiatives. In the context of EU funding or multi‑jurisdictional projects, a federführende Stelle is typically designated as the lead partner or coordinating body. In disaster management or interministerial processes, Federführung helps ensure that actions are synchronized across agencies.

Related formulations include federführende Behörde or federführendes Organ, referring to the specific institution carrying the leading role. The concept emphasizes coordination and shared governance rather than unilateral action. While the exact responsibilities can vary by statute or program, Federführung generally implies clear leadership, accountability, and structured cooperation among multiple stakeholders.