A prominent figure within the Social Democratic Party (SPD) has strongly rebuked recent proposals from the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) regarding welfare benefits. SPD General Secretary Tim Klüssendorf criticized CDU leader Friedrich Merz’s suggestions for substantial cuts to the “Bürgergeld” (basic income support) system, asserting that such measures are fundamentally misguided.
Speaking to the news portal “T-Online” Klüssendorf stated, “We must stop believing that we can balance the state budget at the expense of Bürgergeld recipients. It’s simply incorrect”. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining a minimum standard of living in Germany, asserting that the key priority should be facilitating pathways for individuals to re-enter the workforce. He expressed hope that the CDU would share this perspective.
Merz, in a recent televised interview, had advocated for stricter limitations on state-funded housing costs for Bürgergeld recipients. His proposals included reducing state subsidies for rent and potentially restricting acceptable apartment sizes.
Klüssendorf sharply dismissed these suggestions, highlighting the ongoing challenges of child poverty and homelessness in Germany. He argued that forcing individuals to relocate to potentially even more expensive housing options is illogical and counterproductive.
Beyond the Bürgergeld system, Klüssendorf acknowledged significant challenges facing the government regarding other social security programs. Pointing to a projected 12 billion euro shortfall in the statutory health insurance system, he urged for serious discussion of “genuine reforms”. His primary objective is to prevent further contribution increases that would disproportionately impact lower and middle-income earners. He specifically mentioned the concept of a citizen’s insurance model, where privately and publicly insured individuals contribute collectively, as a potential starting point for addressing these issues.