Ahead of a closed-door meeting between the parliamentary group leaders of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Social Democratic Party (SPD), Steffen Bilger, the CDU’s parliamentary managing director, has advocated for upcoming adjustments to the nation’s basic income system, known as Bürgergeld.
Bilger stated that approximately one-tenth of the national budget is currently allocated to the Bürgergeld, a figure he described as unsustainable. He emphasized a need for improved support for recipients who are capable of working, coupled with increased incentives and potential reductions in benefits for those unwilling to actively seek employment. The goal, he explained, is to facilitate a transition for many individuals out of reliance on the system, thereby achieving significant cost savings.
However, Bilger explicitly ruled out performance-based cuts to healthcare provisions, stating they were not under consideration. He did note the importance of ensuring responsible and efficient allocation of resources within the social safety net, suggesting the Social State Commission would be tasked with formulating relevant proposals.
The gathering in Würzburg, Bilger explained, will serve as an opportunity for improved inter-party communication and the discussion of key policy initiatives. He acknowledged a mixed record for the current governing period, highlighting both successes and areas where performance had fallen short. Looking ahead to the autumn legislative agenda, Bilger identified the Bürgergeld reform, the forthcoming federal budgets and the planned pension package as priority projects.