Bavaria Shifts to Digital, Ditches Faxes

In a significant move towards digitalization, Bavaria's Minister for Digital Affairs, Fabian Mehring, has announced the official ban on fax machines in state offices. This decision, which follows a declaration made in December, aims to phase out what Mehring describes as a "relic of the digital Stone Age." Since the announcement, the number of operational fax machines in the administration has decreased from 3,766 to 1,869, marking a substantial shift in the state's communication practices. Mehring emphasized that the ban is part of a broader initiative to modernize the state's administrative processes and align them with contemporary technological standards. He stated, “Fax machines do not fit with a modern state in the AI era,” highlighting the need for innovative solutions in governance. The initiative has garnered support from various sectors, including the Bundestag and the judges’ association, indicating a collective desire for a more efficient and appealing public service. Despite the ban, the ministry clarified that private individuals and companies will still have the option to send faxes to state authorities, which will then be processed digitally. This approach aims to ensure that while the state moves forward, it does not alienate those who still rely on traditional methods of communication. As Bavaria leads the charge in digital transformation, Mehring expressed optimism about creating a modern state that resonates with the public, stating, “Together, we will deliver and create a modern state that people will find ‘cool’ again!”