Despite a reduction in the number of Bundestag representatives by 103, parliamentary expenses are projected to rise significantly. Calculations by the German Taxpayer Association (BdSt), reported by “Bild”, indicate a substantial increase in the Bundestag budget to €1.276 billion by 2026 – a rise of €126 million.
The unexpected budgetary expansion, occurring despite the smaller legislative body following February’s election, highlights a disconnect between structural reform and cost control within the German parliament. While the number of representatives has shrunk from 733 to 630, the administrative apparatus has remained largely unchanged, contributing significantly to the rising costs.
A substantial portion of expenditures, approximately €280 million, is allocated to personnel costs for parliamentary staff. Each member of parliament is reportedly permitted to spend at least €325,768 annually on bureaucratic support, a figure drawing criticism for its potential to foster an unnecessarily large and costly network. Furthermore, the Bundestag administration employs roughly 3,000 staff members.
The maintenance of expansive parliamentary facilities represents another significant driver of expenses. Currently, the Bundestag maintains approximately 6,300 offices across 32 locations in Berlin, a footprint compounded by a planned expansion of the Marie-Elisabeth-Lüders-Haus, creating an additional 300 offices.
Reiner Holznagel, president of the BdSt, voiced concerns that the recent electoral reform, while nominally reducing the size of the Bundestag, has failed to address the underlying issues of excessive administrative overhead. He directly criticized the “ballooning bureaucracy” and the impact of the considerable real estate holdings.
Holznagel has now called for further austerity measures and a renewed discussion about the ideal size of parliament. He questioned the perceived sanctity of the current 630-member threshold, suggesting a parliament of 500 representatives would be sufficient and advocating for increased courage and a willingness to prioritize fiscal responsibility within the legislative process. The figures are likely to fuel debate about the efficiency and accountability of the German political system.