The former ‘Traffic Light’ coalition in Germany added over 1,600 civil service positions in federal ministries, according to reports. Critics argue this expansion contributes to an oversized bureaucracy and call for administrative reforms. Key ministries seeing the most growth include Health, led by Karl Lauterbach, and Economic Affairs, led by Robert Habeck, reflecting increased responsibilities related to public health and economic challenges. Responses from various ministries highlight reasons for the staff increases, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis, while some officials acknowledge the need for better personnel management.