Economic Adviser Veronika Grimm has called for a “consistent growth agenda” from the new German federal government.
According to Grimm, who spoke to the “Rheinische Post” (Tuesday edition), a key component of this agenda would be a reduction in corporate, income and labor costs. This, she said, would need to be accompanied by structural reforms in social security systems and the healthcare system to keep expenses in check. Additionally, a reorientation of energy policy is necessary, focusing on cost efficiency while keeping climate goals in mind, said the member of the Council of Economic Experts.
Moreover, defense spending needs to be increased. “A major challenge will also be to strengthen the army and the readiness of the German people through the reintroduction of a military service” she said.
The migration policy, Grimm stated, must “effectively limit the refugee stream and, at the same time, systematically promote migration into the labor market.” Migration should be accompanied by an education offensive, leading to better integration of newcomers and better education opportunities for all young people in Germany. “Essential will be to strengthen early childhood education” said the economist.