Landesräte

Landesräte are members of the executive governments of the federal states (Länder) of Austria and Germany. The term translates roughly to "state councilors" or "state ministers." In Austria, each of the nine federal states has a Landesregierung, or state government, headed by a Landeshauptmann (state governor). The Landesräte are members of this government and are typically responsible for specific portfolios, such as education, finance, or social affairs. They are appointed by the Landeshauptmann and are usually members of the state parliament (Landtag).

In Germany, the situation is similar. Each of the sixteen Länder has its own government, and its members are often referred to as Landesräte or, more commonly, Ministerinnen and Minister (ministers). These ministers form the Landesregierung, which is led by a Ministerpräsident (minister president) or Bürgermeister (mayor) in the city-states. Like their Austrian counterparts, German state ministers are responsible for distinct areas of governance within their respective states and are typically members of the state parliament. The exact number and responsibilities of Landesräte can vary from state to state, reflecting the decentralized nature of the federal systems in both countries. They play a crucial role in the administration and policy-making at the state level, implementing federal laws and developing regional policies.