North Rhine-Westphalia is a family-friendly state, and this family-friendliness is immediately evident in the communities where people live. Local governments play a crucial role in this. Whether it’s low-threshold counseling or support services, a wide range of recreational and educational opportunities for young people, participatory intergenerational projects, or the involvement of children and parents in planning processes: Many municipalities are increasingly approaching public administration from the perspective of families.
Under the motto “Family. Community. Cohesion,” the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia is once again honoring municipalities that have shown exceptional commitment to creating family-friendly environments in their communities. The municipalities were invited to apply for the “Family-Friendly Municipality 2025” award by submitting their comprehensive family policy plans or innovative individual family policy projects.
An independent jury composed of representatives from the Ministry of Family Affairs, academia, family associations, and Prognos AG selected this year’s winning municipalities.
The four municipalities impressed the jury with their diverse and effective approaches. They received the “Family-Friendly Municipality 2025” award, each accompanied by prize money of 10,000 euros, at the awards ceremony on October 28, 2025.
“I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the four winning municipalities! Family life takes place first and foremost at the local level. That is why the creative and innovative efforts of municipalities in this area are particularly important. With this award, we want to honor the particularly dedicated municipalities and publicize their projects throughout North Rhine-Westphalia. The award-winning projects will certainly serve as inspiration for other municipalities as well.”
Being family-friendly can take many different forms. On the following pages, we’ll introduce you to the four award-winning municipalities in more detail.
The state award “Family-Friendly Municipality” was presented for the first time in 2024. With this award, the state government of North Rhine-Westphalia recognizes municipalities’ commitment to family-friendliness and helps raise awareness of innovative projects and examples of best practices throughout the state—serving as both inspiration and a blueprint.
© R. Oberhäuser/MKJFGFI
