Summary
38 organizations and associations have criticized planned enhancements to Grundsicherung, a basic social insurance system in Germany. In an open letter published on Thursday, these organizations address the Federal Government and parties from CDU/CSU and SPD, requesting they reverse restrictions – particularly those affecting families. The associations argue that proposed reforms are counterproductive, increasing rather than decreasing pressure on vulnerable groups, especially single parents of young children. They highlight excessive sanctions targeting entire households and increased housing costs as issues requiring urgent attention. The letter also notes that the Union and SPD agreed to enhancements in their coalition agreement but these changes have not yet been implemented. The proposed replacement for Bürgergeld (Basic Social Assistance) will be a Grundsicherung, according to Chancellor Angela Merkel’s administration. This reform is already being considered by the Bundestag, which must ultimately approve it. The letter’s signatories include organizations such as the German Catholic Women’s Social Service and the Federal Association of Evangelical Day Institutions for Children.
Key Topics
Bundesregierung, CDU/CSU, SPD
