A senior figure within Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is calling on the current government to undertake a significant reform program modeled after the Agenda 2010 reforms introduced by former Chancellor Gerhard Schröder. CDU General Secretary Carsten Linnemann highlighted a recent poll indicating that 73% of Germans lack confidence in the state’s capacity to resolve the country’s challenges, describing it as “the core problem of Germany.
Linnemann characterized the survey results, particularly in the wake of a governmental transition roughly 120 days ago, as “bitter” and deeply concerning. He stated that the situation demands immediate and tangible action, emphasizing the need to “deliver” results.
The CDU official believes that public trust can be restored by creating greater security and by improving the functionality of state institutions, citing the national railway system and the social security system as key areas for improvement.
Acknowledging Schröder’s Agenda 2010 reforms, Linnemann welcomed remarks by SPD Chairman Lars Klingbeil, who praised Schröder’s actions. He argued that Germany now has a rare opportunity to enact meaningful change, as a majority of citizens express a desire for a new direction.
Specifically addressing social policy, Linnemann pointed to Labour Minister and SPD co-leader Bärbel Bas as being pivotal to progress. He advocates for a fundamental shift within the social security system, including a redesigned citizen’s income system focused on incentivizing work. Linnemann proposed that those capable of working should be required to do so, with the removal of benefits for those repeatedly declining suitable employment or failing to engage in work. He expressed optimism about the potential for this reform’s implementation later this year.
Regarding Bas’s efforts, Linnemann stated that action is imperative. He drew a direct comparison to Schröder’s actions, asserting that the current government, led by an SPD Minister, must now formulate and execute an “Agenda 2030” to address the nation’s issues.