Marking this year’s International Day for Children, a leading figure is advocating for a significant increase to child benefits. Jan van Aken, chair of the Left Party, has called for an immediate rise in the current child benefit rate.
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post”, van Aken proposed raising the monthly payment to €350 per child. This would represent an increase of approximately €95 and, he argues, would provide substantial and readily accessible financial support to families. He expressed concern over the financial strain faced by many parents, stating it is “a disgrace for such a wealthy nation”. The current child benefit rate stands at €255 per child.
The call for increased support comes as part of ongoing discussions surrounding the financial well-being of families. The current governing coalition has previously committed to improving the situation of single-parent households and plans to hold a national conference on children and youth.
Van Aken emphasized the growing cost of living and the lack of corresponding relief measures for citizens. He believes the International Day for Children serves as a stark reminder of the anxieties felt by many families and highlighted the need to acknowledge the economic burden of raising children, an aspect he feels has been insufficiently addressed by policymakers. He concluded by arguing that it is time to return something to children and their parents.